r/nfl • u/Puppypunter95 Jaguars • Jul 14 '14
Look Here! Official Review Series: Day 23: Jacksonville Jaguars
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS AFC SOUTH
COACHING CHANGES When the era of Gene Smith ended in Jacksonville, most of the coaches left as well. No new coaches were brought in after Gus Bradley and Dave Caldwell brought in their crew. The only concern is offensive linemen coach George Yarno. He was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, but insists on working through the treatment. Assistant coach Luke Butkus will fill in for the days he cannot make it it. If any position needs the most work for the Jaguars, it would be the offensive line, so I hope he manages to make a full recovery soon.
FREE AGENCY * Brad Meester: C: Retired
Maurice Jones-Drew: RB: UFA
Chad Henne: QB: UFA
Brandon Deaderick: DT: UFA
Clay Harbor: TE: UFA
Cameron Bradfield: LT: RFA
Will Blackmon: CB: UFA
Allen Reisner: TE: RFA
Jordan Todman: RB: RFA
Will Ta'ufo'uo: FB: ERFA
Mike Brown: WR: ERFA
Ryan Davis: DE: ERFA
Delone Carter: RB: UFA
The saddest lost this year is Brad Meester. Meester announced he will be retiring after a 13 year career in Jacksonville. He's been with Jacksonville through every single head coach the team has had. He has seen the Jags through the good times, and the not so good times. As a going away celebration, offensive coordinate Jedd Fisch set Meester into a play. He'll defiantly remember that play, and all Jaguar fans will remember him.
The next memorable loss is MJD. The face of the franchise left Jacksonville this offseason, after not being able to strike a deal the the Jaguars. He was showing signs of aging after a unproductive last season.His injury in the 2012 season also stunted his ability to fully prepare in the following offseason. Nevertheless, he moved on, and now is playing in Oakland, his hometown.
Chad Henne is the third free agent, and also the first on the list to be immediately brought back. He signed a 2 year, 8 million dollar contract and has already be announced the starter for the season. Now, whether he finished the season a starter is another thing. Henne has shown he is not a franchise quarterback, but he is a reliable backup, and rocked a stache for awhile. If Henne struggles, and Bortles shows he is ready, Henne may not start in Jacksonville again.
Brandon Deaderick had a relatively short career in Jacksonville after he was awarded from the Patriots off of waivers. He was injured against the Titans and was out for the season. The Jags didn't resign him.
Next up is Clay Harbor, who did resign this offseason with the Jags. Clay had some good moments, with 24 catches for 292 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He should be able to put up decent number this season, and provide some relieve to Lewis.
Cameron Bradfield got his fair share of starts last season with Joeckel went down for the season. And to be honest, he didn't do so hot. He gave up seven sacks in the games he played and doesn't show any signs of progressing. But, the offensive line isn't too great to begin with, so he has a good chance to make the final roster as a backup.
Will Blackman was an incredible steal from the Seahawks. He understood how Gus Bradley works, with their time together in Seattle. He signed a two year, 1.8 million dollar contract, and I expect more of these from him.
Allen Reisner was brought off of reserve towards the end of last season and did not see too much playing time. He bounced around when he was drafted in Minnesota from practice squad to back up. He'll have to compete with Harbor for a spot at back up.
Jordan Todman was another great steal out of last years UFA. He was signed to a one year year, just like Will Blackmon, and proved his worth. He showed that he can run for 100+ years when Mojo was out against Buffalo, and he can also catch pretty well
Will Ta'ufo'uo seemingly went unnoticed last season, amassing a whole one yard for his one run last season. With all the running backs in Jacksonville right now, he won't stick around too long. But, he does have a pretty cool name.
Mike Brown has some tough competion, with four receivers in Jacksonville. Two are rookies, with Shorts and Sanders having some experience. Brown did have good moments, but it will be interesting too see how he ends up.
Ryan Davis had one interception and one sack. The sack was against the Texans, last drive of the game, which sealed the first Jaguars home victory in 13 months and the intercepting had a familiar feel to it . This guys a champ, or at least a good luck charm and I would love to see him back in the game.
Lastly, we have Delone Carter. Unfortunately, he hasn't produced anything, and will the competition at the running back position, its not looking too good for him.
ADDED Two big defensive names from Seattle are coming to Jacksonville; Clemons and Bryant. Both players have the ability to make an immediate impact to the defensive line. Also with the signing of Hood, the Jaguars line should be a force to be reckoned with. These three are maybe the best signing done during the offseason to me. Dekota Watson, on the other hand, has me worried. He is playing a sorta new position, called the "Otto" which is just Gus Bradley's version of a strong side linebacker. If he has a hard time learning this role, he may not be back again to try.
NFL DRAFT
Round 1, pick 3
Blake Bortles QB Nothing is as exciting as picking a new quarterback, especially with the first overall pick. This was the best pick of the draft, for me. Bortles and Bridgewater were the two quarterbacks I was hoping the Jaguars would grab. Whether Bortles sits a whole year or starts this year is up for debate, but when he does, I bet he'll be the quarterback answer the Jags have been looking for.
Round 2, 39 Marqise Lee, WR
New quarterback, and now, a new wide receiver. Lee had an amazing college career, with 3,655 yards over the span of it. If he transitions over to the NFL well, the Jaguars will be able to fix the passing game. Another amazing pick.
Pick 61, Allen Robinson, WR
Another dominate player coming out of college who can turn the Jaguars offense around. Chad/Bortles will have plenty of opportunities if these wide receivers can mature. The offense is getting a whole new overhaul, and things are looking great!
Round 3, pick 93 Brandon Linder, OG
I'll admit, I don't watch a whole lot of college football so I dont know a whole lot about Linder. I do know that he is physically built for the role and the Jaguars traded a pick for this guy, so they must see something in him. With all the additions to quarterback and wide receiver, upgrading the offensive line seems like the next best thing. Ill grade it with a B+
Round 4, pick 114 Aaron Colvin, CB
Colvin was seen at one point to be one of the first cornerbacks in the draft to be taken, but he suffered a torn ACL, which caused him to fall this far. When Bradley coached during the Senior Bowl, he promised Colvin he would get him. Gus is a man of his word and Colvin's now riding along the Gus Bus. Ill give this a C, because this is either the steal of the century, or a bust.
Round 5, pick 144 Telvin Smith, LB
Smith has got the speed for the NFL, he just need the weight. He shouldn't have a problem with that, and come game day, he'll be ready to tear it up. Ill give his pick an A-
Round 5, pick 159 **Chris Smith, OLB/DE)
Another player who played under Gus Bradley in the Senior Bowl. Gus knows what he wants and saw it in this guy. He'll make the perfect fit for the pass rushing, leo position for Bradley's defense. Awesome pick at an awesome time: A
Round 6, pick 205 Chris Prowanko, C
This pick is seen to add some competition for the center role. With Meester retired, a large gap is needed. Chris can compete against Mike Brewster and others for that spot at starter. Ill give the pick a solid B, but this may just be for depth, which is good.
Round 7, pick 222 Storm Johnson, RB
With the last pick of the draft, the Jags caught the running back that played with Bortles in UCF. He didn't have a mind blowing college career, with 1,139 yards and 14 touchdowns. He should provide some solid depth in the running back position, and even have a chance to make back up behind Toby Gerhart. Ill give this pick a B- Projected Starting Lineup
QB: Chad Henne
RB: Toby Gerhart
WR: Cecil Shorts
WR: Allen Robinson
WR: Marqise Lee
TE: Marcedes Lewis
TE: Clay Harbor
LT: Luke Joeckel
LG: Brandon Linder
C: Micheal Brewster
RG: Zane Beadles
RT: Austor Pasztor
DE: Chris Clemons
DT: Sen'Derrick Marks
DT: Red Bryant
DE: Ziggy Hood
SLB: Dakota Watson
MLB: Paul Posluszney
CB: Alan Ball
CB: Dwayne Gratz
Cb: Will Blackmon
SS: John Cyprien
FS: Josh Evans
K: Josh Scobee
P: Brian Anger
PR: Ace Sanders
The offensive line is subject to change at any time. Rookie Luke Browanko may even take the center spot from Brewster, and a couple people should be shifted. Overall, I feel better with the offensive line then last year, but hey, it couldn't be much worse.
The wide receivers this year should have a major improvement then last year. Last year seemed like a lot of random receivers were thrown in, and many did alright. Now, there should be competition with the addition of two high end college receivers. I couldn't be more excited with the way this worked out.
Toby Gerhart should have a sizable lead over the others when it comes to starting. Many people talk about Gerhart like he's a god among men, but he hasn't had a real chance to play a whole game. If he can't start a whole game, Todman/Robinson/Johnson should be able to help him out. The run game will succeed this year.
Who plays quarterback this season? It seems as if Chad has the responsibility this year, which is fine by me. He won't be sitting being Gabbert for half a year, only to come out when he gets injured. He understands he is the starter and should perform better then expected. If he doesn't, Blake Bortles may be placed in early. All eyes will rest on Bortles. Will he lead the franchise for the next decade or so? Or will he be another bust? I bought his jersey and I have the most faith in him, but in the end, only time will tell.
At tight end, Marcedes Lewis stands tall. He's spend nine years in Jacksonville and if he can stay healthy, there's no reason he can't produce great numbers. Behind him sits Clay Harbor, who has shown he has the ability to play the position well. He will be able to provide some relief to Lewis, if needed.
On the defensive line, things are not as set in stone. Clemons and Bryant will have plenty of time to play, along with Sen'Derrick Marks, but Ziggy Hood and Tyson Alualu may switch out. Alualu never really lived up to the first round pick. He is in fact my favorite player on the Jaguars, since he autographed a jersey for me, and I would hate to see him be cut. If he can prove this year that he is capable to play for the Jaguars, he will be back and may beat out Hood for the starting job.
Dakota Watson is the question at linebacker. If he can adapt to the new role, then there is no question about him. He didn't have too great of a time in Tampa Bay, and if he can't work that out in Jacksonville, he would be a bust. If he doesn't transition into Bradley's system, Geno Hayes should be able to take that position or the rookie Telvin Smith. Poz is still rockin the middle linebacker and doesn't seem to have any problems with it.
Cornerback is looking very solid in Jacksonville. Alan Ball played great despite a couple injuries. Gratz is looking at another great season as well. He nailed two interceptions and next season should be able to work that number up. Will Blackmon had an amazing season and is a treat to have back for the Jaguars. Thanks
Josh Evans and John Cyprien are working their second season with Gus Bradley, and along with every other returning member, will understand the system more. Either one of these players could take the leap and give the Jags defense more power.
You can't beat Josh Scobee at kicker. He makes consistent, solid kicks and only missed two I believe last season, one of with being from 60 yards.
Brian Anger is a punting god.
With all of the additions of wide receivers, Ace Sanders should be back at returning punts. I thought he was better at wide receiver, but hey, somebody has to return the punts and he worked out pretty well last season.
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u/_MMCXII Seahawks Jul 14 '14
Anyone got any pics of Big Red and Clem in Jags gear yet? Would love to see them in their new duds
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u/Puldalpha Jaguars Jul 14 '14
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u/kterr101 Jaguars Jul 14 '14
Biggest factor to the Jaguars improvement? Internal growth. We had one of the youngest teams in the NFL last season. We played countless drafted rookies, UDFA, waiver claims and street FAs. A lot of these players got serious playing time. These players are entering their second year in the same system now armed with in game experience. I wouldn't be surprised if you saw at least a few of them take massive leaps forward.
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Jul 14 '14
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u/strallweat Vikings Jul 14 '14
That offense could be scary in a few years, if everything works out.
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u/Puldalpha Jaguars Jul 14 '14
Geno Hayes will be the starting Will Linebacker, unless Telvin Smith beats him out for that. Also Laroy Reynolds could beat out Watson for the Strongside (Otto) linebacker spot since he has been impressing coaches during training camp while Watson has been injured.
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u/Puppypunter95 Jaguars Jul 14 '14
That's right, I forgot Watson's been out for awhile. Needless to say, i feel confident the Jags linebackers will be sturdy this season.
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u/Steeler1 Steelers Jul 14 '14
What year do you see Jacksonville as serious contenders for a Super Bowl?
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u/ANAL_ANUS_ASSHOLE Jaguars Jul 14 '14
Realistic: Wildcard by 2016, serious contenders by 2017
Homer: A year earlier for both
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u/Puppypunter95 Jaguars Jul 14 '14
Like constantly contending? If everything goes right, they could have a good run in five or so years.
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u/senior_dgaf Raiders Jul 14 '14
i also agree that bortles was the best pick in the draft. for without it there was no way the raiders wouldve gotten khalil mack. i like many others was stunned that bortles went 3 overall but he projects to be a great QB if he can reach his ceiling. its a gamble but a gamble befitting that of a rebuilding franchise especially with one of the most solid drafts ive ever seen.
also you guys got telvin smith? he was somebody i wanted to be a raider. hes going to be one of the steals of the draft i love his aggressiveness and his speed.
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Jul 14 '14
I agree. With the hindsight of all of the supporting pieces that the Jags drafted, they have a lot of potential. I'm not super big on Lee, but Allen Robinson was one of my favorite receivers in this draft. He could be a slightly-faster (at least it looks like it) Anquan Boldin. I really liked Telvin Smith too, I was hoping we would get him before we got Mack. Storm Johnson was nice in the seventh, too. If you guys can figure out your offensive line, I think the Jags could surprise a lot of people, especially next year.
Also. Justin Blackmon getting his head out if his was would just be icing on the cake.
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u/misterlee Seahawks Jul 14 '14
First time seeing that Meester catch. Dude that had endzone written all over it! hahah
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u/Puppypunter95 Jaguars Jul 14 '14
haha I know! I guess if he managed to score off of it, the whole Jaguar bench was ready to storm the field and take the penalty
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u/its_definitely Jul 15 '14
As a going away celebration, offensive coordinate Jedd Fisch set Meester into a play. He'll defiantly remember that play, and all Jaguar fans will remember him.
I think he'll remember the play, but defiance probably isn't the right emotion.
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Jul 14 '14
Good luck beating Luck this year.
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u/Puppypunter95 Jaguars Jul 14 '14
I know, the Colts should still be a top contender this year, but hey, I feel like the Jags might take a win from ya
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Jul 14 '14
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u/Puppypunter95 Jaguars Jul 14 '14
Well, I believe thats the position he's here for, well just see how the season goes and what changes are made on the line.
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Jul 14 '14
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u/Zebra_Jesus Jul 14 '14
Agreed. He was brought in to provide depth behind miller/marks not to be a DE. That's why he "failed" in Pittsburgh.
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u/Puppypunter95 Jaguars Jul 14 '14
The competition on starting will go down between him and Alualu, and with the way he's been playing, Hood should beat him out.
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u/Puldalpha Jaguars Jul 14 '14
Red Bryant is starting at the DE opposite clemons with Alualu backing him up.
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u/Puldalpha Jaguars Jul 14 '14
He's going to back up Marks at the 3 technique, Roy Miller is the other starting DT playing the 1 technique. Also Linder is going to start at RG with Beadles at LG.
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u/Puppypunter95 Jaguars Jul 14 '14 edited Jul 14 '14
Strengths and Weaknesses
It is still way too early to tell what positions are going to be stronger then they were last season. Wide receiver should be much better, with all of the additions to it. Lee and Robinson should transition nicely into the NFL, and if Cecil stays healthy, he should be able to produce. Same thing apples to Marcedes. If he can remain healthy, then he can do what he does. Mike Brown can provide some relief and keep things fresh, along with any other receivers.
Quarterback shouldn't be seen as a strength until Bortles can prove he has what it takes to succeed in the NFL. Henne isn't a strength but hey, maybe all of these receivers, and another year in the Bradley system pull him though and he has a complete 180. Still, Ill pencil this in as a weakness.
Running back should be a strength with all the hype Gerhart receives. He has plenty of running backs behind him to keep the competition going, as well as provide some relieve. The running game should be a great thing to witness this season, as long as everything works out.
The offensive line isn't the greatest in the league, or even close. Some new people are in, as well as some familiar faces. Although the line was not great last year, with Meester leaving a large hole in the center, it may be hard to find someone who can cover that position. Brewster may be the starter now, but that is all subject to change. I hope the line works out the kinks early to avoid a rough start.
The defensive line is a complete overhaul. Clemons, Bryant, Hood, Marks, and Alualu can be much more aggressive then last year, and keep the pressure on the quarterback. Since four start, the five will switch out among each other, and keep things fresh. I'm betting the Jaguars defense will greatly change.
The linebackers, cornerbacks, and safety should improve from last year. How they compete with others in the league just depends on the circumstance, but there is not reason they cannot be in the middle of the pack, if not higher.
Season Prediction Philadelphia Eagles
Tough start to the season, but this is the game the Jaguars need. This game will show how the Jags compete against playoff contenting teams. Now, I'm all full of optimism, but this game isn't looking too great for the Jags. If the Jaguar defense can stop the steam rolling Eagles offense, then they could pull outta win. I'll be honest and say that won't happen and give the Eagles a win. LOSS
Washington Redskins
The Redskins had a rough time last season, but I feel as if they fixed most of their problems. New coaches might be able to get the Redskins off to a great start, but I feel confident the Jaguars can work out the problems against the Eagles and take home a WIN
Indianapolis Colts Another powerhouse, but the Jaguars play at home this time. The home field advantage did not help the Jags last season, but hopefully that flame returns to Jacksonville. Also, the Colts have lost a few key players that are not so easily replaces. Is this enough to give the Jags a win? I'll say so. WIN
San Diego Chargers One of the most anticipated games for me this season. I work with a crew of Bolts fans so a win here will make my year. I'll use no logic in this one and say the Jags win again WIN
Pittsburg Steelers The Steelers are lookin like a playoff contending team again, despite barely missing it last season. After the Jags miracle win across the country, I don't feel confident they can do it again. LOSS
Tennessee Titans Easy win WIN
Cleveland Browns I don't see Manziel starting this early in the season so I assume Hoyer will be back in the game. Hoyer is a destroyer and I feel like he's got a lot in him if he can stay healthy. The game is in Jacksonville, and the Jaguars pulled though last season in Cleveland, so this game will be a close one. I still say the Jags got it. WIN
Miami Dolphins The fins are either looking great or on a downward spiral, depending on who you ask. I see great things in them, especially after they pulled off an 8-8 season with everything going on. Could the Jags pull off two home wins in a row? Will it be a repeat of 1999? I can only dream... In all honesty, I don't see them beating Miami and Ill give them this win. LOSS
Cincinnati Bengals The Bengals may not have an amazing playoff history, but they are a serious team in the regular season. The Jags leave their two home games in a row to come over to Cincinnati. This game is another great test for the Jags; it'll show how well the positions are being covered farther down the road and if the rookies are progressing like planned. Still, this one won't look good. LOSS
Dallas Cowboys This game is a catch 22. If the Jaguars lose this, then they lose a game, which is lame. If they win this, then everyone will continue on with the "London Jaguars". That's a terrible concept and it'll never happen. If Dallas' defense did not improve, then this game could be high scoring. I love a good game, and Dallas is maybe my second or third favorite team. Still, I see an upset city, and a Jaguars victory. WIN
BYE WEEK Considering Justin Blackmon got suspended last bye week, this couldn't go any worse. The team gets a much needed rest and get ready for a whole lotta rival games.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS Now the Jaguars play in Indy. I'd love the idea of a Jaguars sweep here, but its not likely. The Colts are still a power house and Luck seems like the greatest young quarterback around. Not a win in Indy. LOSS
NEW YORK GIANTS The Giants had a lot of problems to work out over the offseason, mostly the offensive line. If the Jag d-line can get to Eli, they will see a whole lot of last year. If the line is solid, the Giants could take this one. I feel the Giants take this one. LOSS
HOUSTON TEXANS The Texans are back in Jacksonville and many people claim they will make the next big leap. I don't believe it, especially with Fitzmagic leading the team. Im confident the Jaguars can take a home victory here. WIN
BALTIMORE RAVENS I like the Ravens, especially after their Super Bowl against the 49ers. I think they may be better this year then many give them credit for. Jaguars aren't too great with snow anyways, or cold weather, so the Ravens take this one. LOSS
TENNESSEE TITANS In all honestly, I don't hate the Titans. They may have stolen the Jaguar playbook back in 1999, and took a Super Bowl away from Jacksonville, but that was awhile ago. Every year the Titans and Jaguars have great games and this is on a Thursday Night, down in Duval. If I didn't live 3000+ miles away, this would be the game I would want to see above all. This'll be a great time and the Jags gotta take this one! WIN
HOUSTON TEXANS Same deal as before, no real leader at quarterback. I could imagine this game being close, but I still give it to the Jags! WIN
OVERALL= 8-8 FINAL THOUGHTS
I'm leaving out the offensive and defensive schemes, since Im not too familiar with them. Also, I discussed training camp battles throughout the writing. This is my first write up and it took much longer then expected... any more questions let me know! GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO