Jaguars training camp spotlight: Why linebacker Diablo Combs could push for starting job

The Jacksonville Jaguars open training camp later this month, and among the position groups drawing the most intrigue is the linebacker corps. While veteran Foye Oluokun remains a fixture at one inside spot, the competition for the second starting role has taken an unexpected turn. Undrafted free agent Diablo Combs, entering his second NFL season, has emerged as a legitimate challenger to Ventrell Miller, who had been widely expected to claim the job.

Combs, who signed with Jacksonville after the 2025 draft, spent most of his rookie year on the practice squad before being promoted to the active roster in November. He appeared in 11 games, logging 193 snaps primarily on special teams across four different phases. That foundation, combined with a strong offseason program, has put him in position to compete for defensive reps.

Offseason momentum

According to John Shipley of Jaguars on SI, Combs was a “true riser” during spring workouts, and the “expectation” should be that he will push for the starting role. The report aligns with comments from head coach Liam Coen, who praised Combs’ athleticism and coverage ability during organized team activities.

“Just low-key, he’s pretty athletic, like he’s explosive,” Coen said. “He can do multiple different things in terms of coverage abilities, whether it’s in man or zone. I like him in coverage. So being able to communicate at a high level is what he’s needed those reps.”

Coen’s emphasis on communication and coverage suggests the coaching staff sees Combs as a modern, versatile linebacker capable of handling passing downs—a skill set that could give him an edge in a defense that increasingly values nickel and sub-package flexibility.

Ventrell Miller still in the mix

Miller, a fourth-round pick in 2023, missed his rookie season due to an Achilles injury then played 15 games with seven starts in 2024. He recorded 74 tackles and one sack while learning on the job. The front office and coaching staff have not anointed anyone, and Miller remains a strong candidate. But the gap that existed after last season may have narrowed.

Competition at linebacker is further complicated by Jacksonville’s defensive scheme under new coordinator (or returning coordinator—verify from context). The team has not publicly confirmed a depth chart, and both players will share first-team reps when camp begins.

Special teams to defensive transition

Combs’ path mirrors that of many undrafted players who earn a roster spot through special teams. In 2025, he contributed to four of Jacksonville’s six special-teams phases, providing immediate value while learning the defensive playbook. That experience gives him a baseline reliability that coaches trust, even as he expands his role.

Entering camp, Combs is listed as a backup on unofficial depth charts, but Shipley’s reporting and Coen’s public praise indicate he will receive a legitimate opportunity to unseat Miller. The Jaguars have not made any significant free-agent additions at linebacker this offseason, which further opens the door for internal competition.

What to watch in camp

Key facts

The Jaguars will hold their first full-squad practice later this month. Observers should focus on the first-team linebacker rotation during team drills, particularly in third-down or two-minute situations. If Combs takes a significant number of reps alongside Oluokun, it would signal a real shift. Equally important is how Miller responds—whether he elevates his own play or shows signs of being passed.

Jacksonville’s linebacker play was inconsistent last season, especially in coverage against tight ends and running backs. Combs’ strength in that area could tilt the competition in his favor. However, Miller’s experience and run-stopping ability remain valuable, and the team may use both players situationally.

Bottom line for Jaguars fans

This competition matters beyond depth-chart trivia. The Jaguars defense needs to improve its third-down efficiency and pass coverage from the second level. If Combs can earn starting snaps, he would bring a different dynamic than the more traditional Miller. Even if he doesn’t win the job outright, his rise increases the unit’s overall quality and gives the coaching staff a capable backup with upside.

Training camp battles often produce surprises, and Combs—an undrafted player who barely saw the field on defense last year—represents one of the more compelling storylines in Jacksonville this summer.

Source: Yahoo Sports (originally published via Jaguars Wire) – https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/second-udfa-jaguars-player-watch-093014724.html