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Jaguars’ Scrimmage Reactions

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The Jaguars had an open scrimmage to the public on Sunday and some of the observations change how I view the team going into preseason.

The Jaguars held a scrimmage open to the public and there were new observations leaving the fans of Duval abuzz. There were players that surprised and also budding young stars continue to impress. Let’s take a look at how the team is shaping up under Urban Meyer, along with my perception of how the team is changing.

QB Competition In Name Only

Urban Meyer continues to say there is an open QB competition between Trevor Lawrence, Gardner Minshew, and C.J. Beathard. It is very clear Lawrence will be named the starter in only a matter of time. He has impressed in camp so far. Especially this scrimmage – going 21-26 and throwing 3 TDs. Including this beautiful toss to Laquon Treadwell.

 

RB Tandem

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James Robinson: He missed a couple of days of practice but was right back in the starting lineup during the scrimmage. Robinson had a nice burst and a couple of nice runs up the middle. The plans still appear that Robinson will be the main recipient of the carries. He has shown the best vision of the backs in camp.

Travis Etienne: Etienne showed the big-play ability that led Urban Meyer to draft him in the first round. In the Jaguars’ scrimmage, he also displayed those sticky hands, making a couple of great grabs.

Both will be heavily involved in the offense. Observations come from John Shipley, a great follow on Twitter for the Jags.

 

Crowded WR Depth Chart

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Meyer has continued to add WRs to the Jaguars roster to add playmakers. They have a ton of injuries already so, let’s take a look at the players pushing for playing time:

  • DJ Chark: Chark did not participate, as he has a finger injury. He is said to be back and ready for week 1. Missing preseason could affect his pecking order among the WRs.
  • Marvin Jones: Returned to practice Sunday but did not participate in team drills.
  • Laviska Shenault: Hype train continues. He caught one of Lawrence’s 3 TDs in the scrimmage.
  • Jamal Agnew: Brought in for special teams but has shown to be a deep threat. Agnew could get more playing time in 4 or 5 WR sets.
  • Laquon Treadwell: Meyer made a point to mention Treadwell and emphasized that he has caught practically everything in camp. He has a chance not only to make the team but also to be involved in the offense.
  • Collin Johnson: Johnson continued his strong camp, making tough catches over the middle from Lawrence.

A New Defense Finally

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The Jaguars’ front office historically drafted players better suited for a 3-4 scheme. Previous coaching regimes mostly used 4-3, however. New defensive coordinator Joe Cullen brought an attacking 3-4 defense. So far it looks to be a good fit for many of the young players. In the scrimmage, Cullen used players from all positions to create pressure.

  • Myles Jack and Joe Schobert are great in tandem in the middle. Behind them, however, is not much depth. The only strong backup option is Damien Wilson, who came from the Chiefs. He brings great veteran leadership in setting up the defense.
  • K’Lavon Chaisson is improving and turning a corner. He is being utilized in the hybrid role that many thought he could excel. In Josh Allen‘s absence, Chaisson had two sacks and a nice play in coverage.
  • Rookie cornerback Tyson Campbell continues to impress and Meyer glows about his play. It looks like he can play inside and outside with great recovery speed.

Change in Perception

The Jaguars’ first preseason game is this Saturday against the Cleveland Browns. There are many interesting things to watch. Many teams do not play starters very long in the first preseason game. However, the Jaguars may choose to keep starters playing longer. They hope that will bring more cohesion between the young players.

Many of my assumptions remain true. There are some that have changed, however:

  • I knew Lawrence would be good but he is progressing even faster than I thought.
  • James Robinson and Travis Etienne are both going to have big roles on the team and I believe both are top 24 RBs this season.
  • I thought DJ Chark would be the leading WR, but I am changing my mind. There has not been as much buzz about him in camp. With the lack of preseason, he may have a tough time building chemistry with Lawrence.
  • The top three WRs will be Chark, Shenault, and Marvin Jones. Other WRs will get their spots but probably not enough to consistently be fantasy relevant this year.
  • I was not sure how the defense would shape up. It seems like it will be improved and tough enough to remain competitive. That should lead to more wins. The defense will help the team stick to the run game. Unlike in the 2020 season.
THANKS FOR CHECKING OUT MY THOUGHTS ON THE JAGUARS LEADING INTO PRESEASON. PLEASE CONTINUE TO CHECK OUT MY ARTICLES AT IDPGUYS.ORG AND FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER AT @HAYEB3.
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