The 2025 season will see Arik Armstead return to his familiar defensive tackle spot after his trial phase along the edge with the Jaguars last year. It remains to be seen, however, if he will be on the field for Week 1. 
Armstead has been dealing with a back injury throughout training camp. The 31-year-old managed to take part in individual drills for Jacksonville’s first eight summer practices, but he has been sidelined for the past three practices altogether. Head coach Liam Coen indicated (via ESPN’s Michael DiRocco) the team took a cautious approach with Armstead early in camp but added it is uncertain if he will suit up at the start of the regular season.
“He’s a veteran who, ultimately, he’ll probably know how to get himself ready to go, I would hope,” Coen said. “The key is just making sure that he’s healthy and ready to go for the first game. It’s a long season as we know. Now not to say that early [games] aren’t obviously as important as late ones, but it is a long season, and we’re really just trying to get him to be as healthy as possible.”
After seeing his nine-year 49ers tenure end last spring, Armstead inked a three-year, $43.5MM contract with the Jags. A rotational role along the edge resulted in a snap share of only 48%, the lowest of his career since his rookie campaign. The former first-round pick will look to take on a larger workload at the defensive tackle spot alongside DaVon Hamilton this season. Jacksonville ranked ninth against the run in 2024, and Armstead will be a key factor in determining if the team can remain strong in that regard while also aiming to provide a pass rush presence from along the interior.
None of the Oregon product’s base pay for 2026 is guaranteed. As a result, Armstead’s performance this season will be critical in shaping his financial future. Barring a positive turn with respect to his health situation, though, Armstead could be in danger of missing time in September.