As the Jacksonville Jaguars take on the New Orleans Saints in their preseason opener, which players should we be watching closely?
Head coach Liam Coen has already announced that the Jaguars starters will not play in this game, paving the way for second and third-team players to see extended action.
With roles and roster spots up for grabs, how these players perform in the preseason games can carry more weight in the overall evaluation process. Here is one player to watch from every position group.
Quarterback: Carter Bradley
Bradley is competing with Joey Aguilar for the third quarterback spot on the depth chart, which will likely be on the practice squad. Bradley has experience in the Liam Coen offense working in his favor compared to Aguilar, an incoming UDFA, and in the early going, that should shine through during a live game.
Running back: Ameer Abdullah
It’s not common for teams to keep a fourth running back, although the Jaguars often did last season. Abdullah has had a good camp, both as a ball carrier and as a return man. He’ll need to perform well in the preseason in order for Coen and James Gladstone to consider keeping an extra back.
Wide receiver: Josh Cameron, CJ Williams
The rookies have impressed so far — and not only in training camp but since they arrived in Jacksonville. The next step is carrying that momentum into game action.
Tight end: Tanner Koziol
Similarly to Cameron and Williams, Koziol has impressed and has seemingly carved out a role for himself as the third tight end on the depth chart. How does Koziol’s presence impact the passing game, and how does he hold up as a blocker?
Offensive line: Chuma Edoga
Entering camp, it wasn’t a given that Edoga would make the final roster. But as the Jaguars deal with injuries up front, Edoga’s presence has been quite valuable. Along with his experience, he can play both guard and tackle as well.
Defensive line: Wesley Williams
Williams is competing with BJ Green, Zach Durfee, and Danny Striggow for playing time. It’s largely been a quieter camp for him, but the Jaguars are very bullish on his ability to impact both the run and passing games, along with the play style he brings to the defense. In a game against an unfamiliar opponent is where Williams’ skill set has the ability to shine, helping him earn a larger role defensively.
Linebacker: Jalen McLeod
McLeod is one of a few players competing for perhaps just one roster spot. After a strong start to camp, we haven’t heard as much about McLeod as of late. Like Dennis Gardeck, he brings a unique skill set to this position, as he’s able to rush the passer from the edge rusher position. Making an impact on special teams will be important for McLeod as well.
Cornerback: Jabbar Muhammad
The second-year cornerback has found his share of success since the offseason programs, which includes lining up both outside and in the slot, along with showcasing good ball skills. A good performance in New Orleans should all but cement Muhammad’s spot on the roster.
Safety: Caleb Ransaw
Ransaw is the player to watch here simply because we’ve seen so little of him. In Anthony Campanile’s defense, Ransaw will be the third safety — a role that does see regular playing time.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: One Jaguars player to watch at every position group vs. Saints
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire / Jaguars Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire | USA TODAY Network
