The NFL preseason doesn’t just entertain with highlight reels—it quietly defines futures. For some players, the last game in August provides validation; for others, it brings uncomfortable questions. On August 23, the Jacksonville Jaguars’ preseason finale against the Miami Dolphins gave a clear picture of both outcomes. Two linebackers, Chad Muma and Jack Kiser, walked away on very different trajectories—one veteran still searching for footing, and one rookie building his foundation.
Chad Muma’s Missed Opportunity
When the Jaguars selected Chad Muma in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the organization envisioned a player who could become a steady presence in the middle of the defense. Now entering his fourth season, Muma faced a critical preseason that would determine whether he was simply a depth option or a core contributor. Unfortunately, his showing in Miami highlighted the same issues that have slowed his progress.
Muma looked hesitant in space, often a step behind in diagnosing offensive plays. His most difficult moment came when Dolphins wide receiver Malik Washington beat him cleanly for a touchdown—a sequence that underscored his struggles in coverage. While the stat sheet credited him with eight combined tackles across the preseason, the tape told a harsher truth: the consistency just wasn’t there.
In the NFL, where roster decisions hinge on razor-thin margins, flashes aren’t enough. Muma needed to show command, but instead, he looked like a player still trying to find it. Unless he can offer significant special teams value or steady depth, his place on the Jaguars’ 53-man roster could be in jeopardy. What was once an opportunity to solidify his role has now left coaches with more questions than answers.
Jack Kiser’s Steady Climb
In sharp contrast stood rookie linebacker Jack Kiser, who entered training camp with little buzz but left the preseason finale having strengthened his case for a roster spot. Coaches have praised Kiser’s instincts, tackling form, and ability to adapt to different defensive assignments—traits that stand out in a young player adjusting to the NFL’s speed.
Against the Dolphins, Kiser showed poise and discipline. He filled running lanes decisively, blitzed with controlled aggression, and rarely allowed himself to get caught out of position. Perhaps most importantly, he didn’t chase plays for the sake of splash moments. Instead, he played within the defensive scheme, showing maturity beyond his years.
Kiser’s performance didn’t leap off the screen, but that might be the point. His strength lies in reliability—a trait that coaches value when trimming down to the final 53. While others chased the spotlight, Kiser’s steady presence gave the Jaguars a reason to trust him.
Two Paths, One Preseason Truth
The Jaguars’ linebacker competition illustrates the brutal efficiency of the NFL preseason. For Muma, the finale revealed cracks in his game that could cost him valuable standing. For Kiser, it showcased a foundation strong enough to earn a longer look.
Preseason games may fade from public memory, but their consequences ripple into September. On August 23, Jacksonville witnessed two linebackers take opposite paths—one trying to hold on, the other just getting started.
Jaguars Linebackers Show Opposite Paths in Preseason Finale