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Updates from Week 4
Quarterbacks
Trevor Lawrence rounded off an excellent camp with a standout performance against the Dolphins, completing 8-of-10 passes for 92 yards. He could have led two long scoring drives if not for Tank Bigsby's goal-line fumble. This capped a superb camp for the third-year budding superstar. Lawrence made quick decisions throughout camp, threaded passes into tight windows, and demonstrated remarkable ball placement. While he faced challenges, as all players do, Lawrence appears poised to enter the elite rung of NFL quarterbacks. Backup C.J. Beathard completed 8-of-10 passes for 134 yards and a touchdown and showed enough in the preseason for the front office to comfortably waive third-stringer Nathan Rourke.
Running Backs
Travis Etienne impressed throughout camp, showing off improved hands and increased decisiveness behind the line of scrimmage. His hands were on display in the preseason finale when he caught a ball for a 20-yard gain, although the play was called back due to a holding penalty. Etienne is expected to lead the backfield in 2023, but rookie Tank Bigsby has also turned heads throughout camp. Consistently breaking off big runs in both practices and games, Bigsby has emerged as the clear No. 2 back behind Etienne. In the preseason finale, Bigsby accounted for 43% of the carry share when the starters were in—a split that seems to indicate the team's plans. This tandem could become one of the best in the NFL. Behind them, D'Ernest Johnson made a compelling case to be the No. 3 back during the preseason. Johnson finished the finale against Miami with six carries for 26 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, the incumbent No. 3, JaMycal Hasty, received just two carries for 16 yards and a touchdown. All four players are likely to make the 53-man roster, making the running back position a strong point for the Jaguars.
Wide Receivers
Many anticipated that Calvin Ridley would show signs of rust after his extended hiatus from football, but that wasn't the case. Ridley was the standout receiver throughout training camp and maintained that momentum into the final preseason game. Logging three catches for 50 yards during just two drives, his impact is already apparent. Ridley's ability to separate from coverage independent of the scheme provides the team with a "go-to" guy. The general sentiment on Ridley coming out of camp is: wheels up. Despite Ridley's dominance, Christian Kirk and Zay Jones have also carved out a substantial target share throughout camp. Jones has been a red-zone force, consistently winning 50-50 balls and earning Lawrence's trust to haul them in. Kirk, meanwhile, has been "old reliable," often targeted by Lawrence in clutch situations. Expect all three wide receivers to make their mark in 2023, with Kirk and Ridley likely leading the charge. As for the rest of the receiving room, Jamal Agnew, Parker Washington, and Tim Jones are projected to round it out. Jones likely secured his spot on the roster with a 74-yard touchdown catch in the preseason finale. Elijah Cooks turned heads during camp and is likely a player the Jaguars will aim to keep on the practice squad.
Tight Ends
Doug Pederson's knack for maximizing the potential of his tight ends was on full display during camp. Evan Engram was consistently impressive, but Brenton Strange, Luke Farrell, and Gerrit Prince each had their own shining moments. Strange's blocking ability gives him an edge for the No. 2 spot, but Farrell made his case last Saturday. He hauled in two balls for 24 yards with the starting unit on the opening drive. This may be the deepest position group on the roster.
Kickers
Brandon McManus and James McCourt both made all of their placekick attempts in the preseason finale, combining for four extra-point makes and McManus converting the only field goal attempt from 37 yards. McManus should be the Week 1 starter, but the Irish-born McCourt probably did enough to put himself on the radar for teams that may need a kicker during the season.
Defense
The injury to DaVon Hamilton cast a shadow over the team's otherwise improving performance throughout camp. Hamilton is sidelined indefinitely due to a back injury, disrupting his streak of standout practices. He had been the most consistent player on the defense but is reportedly making good progress in his recovery. The team will need him back as soon as possible. The defensive stars of camp were second-year players Devin Lloyd and Travon Walker. Both showed moments where everything seemed to click, and they'll be heavily relied upon to elevate the defense. Walker carries high expectations as a former No. 1 overall pick, but all signs point to him being ready for the challenge. The defense appears set for improvement; its overall success will hinge on the health and development of its young talent.
Returners
Jamal Agnew ranks fifth among active players in career return yards and will again handle those responsibilities for the Jaguars in 2023.
Updates from Week 3
Quarterbacks
After starting with some light practices early in the week, Trevor Lawrence lit it up against the Lions in joint sessions. Lawrence connected repeatedly with all four top receivers and even engaged in spirited trash talk. His accuracy, quick decision-making, and mastery of the offense in his second year within the system were evident. The second day of joint practice was light, as the teams were in shorts and no pads, giving Lawrence an extended break from the high-intensity practices they've implemented over the last couple of weeks. Lawrence wasn't as sharp in that light practice, throwing one terrible interception to C.J. Gardner-Johnson. Still, he was efficient with the football and turned it around in 7-on-7 periods. "It was real competitive, we were battling, and you love to see that," Lawrence said. There hasn't been a discouraging practice report about Lawrence or the offense in quite some time; his breakout may be looming. Lawrence and the first-team offense sat out the preseason matchup against the Lions. C.J. Beathard, the clear No. 2 quarterback, had an up-and-down game this week. He finished 12-of-20 for 138 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Beathard and the second-team offense should have put points on the board, scoring just 12 in the first half of action. No. 3 Nathan Rourke had a solid day, albeit without another remarkable highlight. He finished 8-for-9 for 115 yards.
Running Backs
Travis Etienne was active in joint practices but was given the game off against the Lions. Etienne is still entrenched as the clear No. 1, but Tank Bigsby's performance in Week 2 should give fantasy managers reason for excitement. Bigsby finished with 13 carries for 70 yards and added a catch. He had another long run called back for a holding penalty and arguably the best player on either side of the ball. Bigsby showed patience and vision, highlighted by a remarkable stop-start when the offensive line lost a rep in the middle of the second quarter. Performances like this could earn a larger share of the snaps.
Wide Receivers
All the pass catchers showed off in the first practice with the Lions, with Christian Kirk and Zay Jones hauling in highlight-reel touchdown catches. Calvin Ridley was the standout, though, as Lawrence consistently targeted him in the intermediate areas of the field. The attention Ridley demands from opposing defenses could lead to more red zone opportunities for Kirk and Jones. Beyond the impressive starting trio, rookie Parker Washington is also making a name for himself. He started camp slow but has stood out in the last week-and-a-half, capping off a fantastic week of practice with a touchdown against the Lions. Washington is also involved in kick-return duties and appears poised for a roster spot. Elijah Cooks followed up his two-catch, 42-yard performance from Week 1 with another two catches for 69 yards. Cooks has emerged as the favorite to win the final roster spot. Seth Williams and Tim Jones are still pushing for that spot, too. Jones had a 48-yard catch after a good week of practice, and Williams hauled in three catches for 36 yards.
Tight Ends
Evan Engram had an active second practice against the Lions, with Lawrence looking to him as a safety blanket when things weren't firing on all cylinders. Engram joined Ridley, Kirk, and Jones as the primary pass-catchers with consistently good play. However, Engram wasn't the only tight end to shine, as rookie Brenton Strange continued to make strides and showcased his potential with a beautiful catch in team periods. Strange caught three balls for 23 yards against the Lions and should have a regular role as a rookie. Tight ends are a big piece of the offense, and Gerrit Prince and Jacob Harris got on the board with catches in the game, too. Prince had two for 12 yards, with Harris hauling in an impressive 23-yard catch, breaking tackles along the way.
Kickers
Brandon McManus made both field goals, with the longest being from 40 yards, and James McCourt successfully made an extra point attempt in the victory over the Lions. McManus has done everything possible to make good on the $1.25 million guarantee he received in May following a surprise release from Denver.
Defense
Devin Lloyd stood out against the Lions in joint practice this week, making plays all over the field, including a one-handed interception. Lloyd's steady progress has him set for an impact year. Camp standouts Antonio Johnson and Foley Fatukasi sat out the preseason matchup due to injury, though Fatukasi likely would have sat out with the other starters anyway. The team expects him back for Week 1, but Johnson's hamstring could keep him out a little longer. Edge defender Josh Allen had a solid week of practice, consistently pressuring and sacking the quarterbacks. Allen and second-year breakout favorite Travon Walker look like a formidable pass-rush duo.
Offensive Line
The Jaguars rested their starters for the preseason game against Detroit. Left tackle Cam Robinson, who is currently suspended, was the only starter to see action and struggled, committing a holding penalty and looking out of sorts. Robinson's contract includes a clause where his suspension could void remaining guarantees. Walker Little has a real chance to steal this job. Rookie right tackle Anton Harrison is playing through a shoulder injury. Josh Wells and Tyler Shatley are also still rehabbing injuries. Despite high expectations for a playoff run in Jacksonville, the line’s 30th-place rank is a headwind.
Updates from Week 2
Quarterbacks
Trevor Lawrence found his stride in practice this week before a shaky first preseason performance. Lawrence dissected the defense during team drills in some of the most physical practices yet. That good play translated, although it took Lawrence a drive to adjust when the lights came on Saturday. His first drive ended in a rough interception. Lawrence rolled out to the left before floating a ball into double coverage. He rebounded on his second drive, standing tall in the collapsing pocket and delivering a pass to Christian Kirk in the back of the end zone. Lawrence finished the night 5-of-6 for 36 yards. Backup C.J. Beathard went 6/13 for 80 yards in limited action. Third-stringer Nathan Rourke went 9/17 for 153 yards and a touchdown, with the touchdown standing out as an early contender for the play of the preseason. Rourke escaped from an oncoming rush with what seemed like magic before emerging from the pocket and delivering a strike with defenders draped on his back. In total, he evaded four potential sacks. "He did a nice job leading that group in the second half. He had a really good second half," said Doug Pederson after heaping praise on Rourke for the highlight-reel play.
Running Backs
Travis Etienne received the first goal-line reps in practice this week, solidifying his place as the lead back. Etienne played the most snaps with the first-team offense, although Tank Bigsby rotated in for one short-yardage play. While most expected Etienne to remain the lead back, the team's actions this week reinforced that notion. Etienne carried the ball five times for 22 yards in the Week 1 matchup. "We have always just kind of been, the guy who is making plays will get carries. And that is going to start with Travis first and foremost, and then you will just see a number of guys continue to get a number of opportunities behind that," said offensive coordinator Press Taylor. The staff appears to be managing expectations for Bigsby, whose impressive practice performance has generated buzz. Bigsby rotated in with the first team for a 3rd-and-1 play early in Saturday's game, which fantasy managers should view as a positive. Bigsby carried the ball nine times for 52 yards, including an impressive run where he bounced outside and outpaced defenders. Third-stringer D'Ernest Johnson also made an impact, carrying the ball five times for 32 yards and adding a catch.
Wide Receivers
While Calvin Ridley has received the most attention throughout training camp, Christian Kirk had the best night on Saturday. The Jaguars ran a bubble screen for Kirk on the game's first play. It was a small gain, but it showcased an intention to keep him as a focal point of the offense. Kirk was the target in the back of the end zone on the second drive, securing his second catch for a touchdown. Ridley also caught two passes for 21 yards. Both players have had standout moments in practice, and many indications suggest that the team boasts one of the league's best receiver tandems. Zay Jones remained quiet on Saturday, failing to earn a target during his limited snaps. Undrafted rookie Elijah Cooks stood out, catching two receptions for 42 yards. Fellow rookie Parker Washington assumed kick return duties, a role that, if earned, would almost guarantee his spot on the roster.
Tight Ends
"While Calvin Ridley will absorb Marvin Jones' targets and some of Zay Jones', it is hard to imagine he takes many of [Evan] Engram's," says Sports Illustrated's John Shipley. Engram has had a spectacular camp, and all indications point to him maintaining the same role in 2023. Engram played sparingly in the preseason matchup against the Cowboys. Brenton Strange tied for the team lead in targets with three and executed a highlight-worthy block to seal the edge on Bigsby's significant run. Strange remains the favorite for the No. 2 tight end position, but Gerrit Prince is one of the most improved practice players compared to a year ago. Prince didn't make a notable impact as a receiver on Saturday but played nearly as many snaps as Strange. Prince is the favorite for the No. 3 spot. Luke Farrell played well on Saturday, delivering multiple impactful blocks but failing to haul in his only target.
Kickers
The Jaguars didn’t attempt a field goal and went for two on all four of their touchdowns. As a result, there was no movement in the kicker battle between James McCourt and Brandon McManus.
Defense
“It’s a growth from my mentality last year. I like to say I’ve always had a dog mentality. It’s just the little things that I had to learn from last year, being a rookie. Just coming into the league, understanding a lot of different scheme things, mental things, how to switch up my game within the game, and how to elevate as a player. It’s still the same mentality it’s just time to take it to a new level," Travon Walker discussed his transition to the NFL and his increased comfort level. Walker impressed last week, consistently penetrating the backfield against the first-team offense. Walker's playing time was limited on Saturday. Defensive tackle DaVon Hamilton continued his impressive performances, extending into Saturday's game. Hamilton is having his most productive camp as a pro. Standout cornerback Tyson Campbell didn't suit up for Saturday's game as he remains in concussion protocol. The Athletic's Nate Tice expects Campbell will ascend to All-Pro status in 2023. During his absence from practice, Darious Williams took on the assignment of covering Ridley and earned more reps than anticipated. Rookie safety Antonio Johnson Jr. continued his stellar play from practice, recording four tackles against the Cowboys. Johnson appears to have secured the No. 3 safety position.
Returners
Jamal Agnew ranks 5th among active players in career return yards and will handle those responsibilities again.
Updates from Week 1
Quarterbacks
Trevor Lawrence emphasized three priorities this offseason: gaining muscle, refining his mechanics, and making more pre-snap checks. Many anticipate a significant leap in his performance in Year 3, and the quick development of chemistry with Calvin Ridley suggests that could become a reality. Although Lawrence hasn't been flawless, the focus on minimizing mistakes is evident. Christian Kirk remarked, "I think that's a big thing, last year maybe not being able to get to his third progression, now he's able to get to that," after Lawrence ranked in the top ten in The Athletic's 2023 QB Tiers. Lawrence was a risky thrower in 2022, but training camp has allowed him to improve tight window throws in hopes of a big Year 3 improvement. C.J. Beathard remains the unquestioned backup. In his third year with the team, Beathard operates Doug Pederson's system efficiently. The coaches are confident he could sustain a productive offense if Lawrence got hurt.
Running Backs
Arguably, the running back room witnessed the most significant improvement this offseason. New additions Tank Bigsby and D'Ernest Johnson are turning heads with a series of impressive practices. "Bigsby looked like a runaway freight train when hitting the hole, and if Tuesday was any indication, he could be in line for short-yardage touches early in his career," Sports Illustrated’s John Shipley said. Bigsby's catching ability has been a pleasant surprise, making multiple one-handed and difficult grabs during team periods in the early stages of camp.
The incumbent starter, Travis Etienne, is still expected to handle a substantial workload. Pederson stressed anticipation and downhill running as areas of focus for Etienne this offseason, and he has embraced these improvements. Pederson aims for Etienne to reach 1,600-1,700 rushing yards, but he is still working on those key areas of improvement. Etienne and Bigsby are expected to form a formidable duo, and with Johnson in the mix, the Jaguars could have one of the top-five running back rooms in the league.
Wide Receivers
Outside from one rough practice, Calvin Ridley appears to be the top-ten receiver he was when we last saw him. The explosiveness in his releases and speed within his routes are noticeable, and Ridley has quickly developed chemistry with Lawrence. The Athletic's Robert Mays put it this way: “The success of the Jaguars' skill position room was primarily due to scheme. The addition of Ridley gives them a "beat-you-one-on-one" guy. That component should open up the offense in a significant way.” Outside of Ridley, Zay Jones is receiving praise for his contested catch ability. Christian Kirk remains the No. 2 receiver, but Jones established a good connection with Lawrence in 2022, and Pederson and the team are looking to build on that. While Ridley and Jones may receive the most attention for their style of play, Kirk remains a consistent and reliable pass-catcher, especially over the middle. Kirk expects the Jaguars to have one of the best offenses in the NFL, and although his role is likely to change with Ridley's addition, the pairing could become one of the league’s most dynamic duos.
Tight Ends
The tight end room may be the deepest on the team, opines Shipley. Evan Engram remains a reliable option for the first-team offense, a good sign following his three-year, $41.25M contract extension. Rookie second-round pick Brenton Strange’s contested-catch ability is receiving rave reviews. Strange is getting opportunities against the first-team defense and rising to the occasion. Luke Farrell and Gerrit Prince are also practicing well, and Coach Pederson's ability to maximize the potential of the tight end room remains a differentiated advantage. The team values Engram, but an extended absence wouldn’t materially alter the team’s trajectory.
Kickers
The Jaguars signed Brandon McManus after Denver cut him in a cap savings move, and he is expected to be the starter, but 2022 rookie free agent James McCourt was also signed to a futures deal after he spent last year on the practice squad. McManus went to Canton this weekend for the induction of former teammate Demarcus Ware, so McCourt got a chance to kick in practice on Sunday. He went 3-for-4 on field goal attempts and hit an upright from 40 yards out on his one miss. It doesn’t sound like McManus has to look over his shoulder yet.
Defense
The team trusts that second-year players Travon Walker and Devin Lloyd will take significant steps forward. The defense didn’t add any projected starters in the offseason, and the front office hopes the young core builds on a below-average 2022 season. Cornerback Tyson Campbell has won his fair share of one-on-one reps against Ridley, indicating the third-year corner could make another leap. But defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell wants his defenders to improve their tackling. Lloyd’s eye discipline is much more consistent this year. He and fellow second-year linebacker Chad Muma have a lot on their plate this season, but they’re expected to deliver as early as Week 1. Caldwell is also excited about Walker's development. "He's just understanding now that he's the No. 1 pick, but he's also Travon. And [he's] going to be Travon on the field, and [his] Travon is good enough for the Jaguars," he explained the first week of camp. The defense needs a more consistent pass rush, and Walker is vital to that success.
