The Jacksonville Jaguars are primed to improve after nailing the 2016 NFL Draft. Playing in a weak AFC South division makes the Jaguars potential playoff contenders this season. What should we be on the lookout for during Jags camp?
3 Position Battles To Watch:
- Runningback: T.J. Yeldon vs. Chris Ivory
Yeldon entrenched himself as Jacksonville’s main back a year ago but has some serious competition with the new arrival of Ivory. In 2015 with the Jets, Ivory rushed for over 1,000 yards and 7 touchdowns. The preseason should be a good indicator for each backs workload.
2. Safety: James Sample vs. Jonathan Cyprien
Cyprien is a three year starter who has recorded over 100 tackles each of the past three years. The interesting part is the Jaguars didn’t draft James Sample for no reason. With the signing of Tashaun Gipson something has to give here.
3. Pass Rusher: Yannick Ngakoue vs. Bjoern Werner vs. Tyson Alualu
The Jaguars are looking to see who will take over as the premier pass rusher opposite of Dante Fowler. Ngakoue is probably best suited for a third down role and Werner has been a bust since being taken in the first round by Indy. This Jaguars defense is pretty talented expect for the fact that they lack pass rushers.
Ready To Breakout: Telvin Smith
Telvin Smith is the reason why teams have started the trend of undersized outside linebackers. Smith, 25, recorded 125 tackles a year ago and is set to become one of the best in the game. There are not many linebackers I would rather have than Telvin Smith, the rest of the league just doesn’t realize it yet.
Fantasy Sleeper: Denard Robinson
Robinson could really take the Darren Sproles role and run with it. Ivory and Yeldon will get a bulk of the carries but Robinson is the elite pass catcher of the group.
Rookie To Watch: Myles Jack
This was not an easy one to pick as it could have easily been Jack, Jalen Ramsey, or even Sheldon Day. Jack would have been my number one overall player if he were completely healthy. The Telvin Smith, Myles Jack line backing core will be an interesting one to watch.
Surprisingly enough I have Jacksonville pegged to make a postseason appearance. An excellent draft combined with the continued progression of Blake Bortles make this Jacksonville team a sleeping giant.
