The Jacksonville Jaguars have wrapped up their first week of the preseason, and the team's 53-man roster is taking shape. With cut-down day just around the corner on August 30, the coaching staff is evaluating the roster and making tough decisions about which players will make the cut.
The Jaguars' young players got a chance to shine in the team's first preseason game, a 24-20 victory over the New Orleans Saints. Several players helped their stock, including running back J'Mari Taylor, who had 22 carries for 78 yards. Taylor's performance solidified his spot on the roster, and he's now competing with DeeJay Dallas for the last roster spot in the running back room.
The Jaguars' wide receiver room is also taking shape, with Jakobi Meyers, Brian Thomas Jr., Parker Washington, Travis Hunter, Josh Cameron, and CJ Williams projected to make the roster. Chandler Brayboy and Trebor Pena, however, are fighting for a practice squad spot. Brayboy helped his stock with a strong performance, but Pena's struggles in the endzone have put his roster spot in jeopardy.
The tight end position is also seeing some changes, with Hunter Long's effectiveness in the run game making him a key contributor. Long's performance has pushed Quintin Morris out of the boat, and he now finds himself on the outside looking in.
The Jaguars' special teams unit is also a key area of focus, with the team's special teams brotherhood being a major factor in their success. This unit is led by several key players, including Travis Hunter, who is projected to make the roster as a cornerback.
The Jaguars' defensive line and edge rusher position is also taking shape, with Josh Hines-Allen, DaVon Hamilton, Arik Armstead, Travon Walker, and Ruke Orhorhoro projected to make the roster. Bryan Thomas Jr. flashed in the game, but it's unclear if he'll make the main roster or practice squad.
Linebacker Foye Oluokun is also a key player, and he's projected to make the roster along with Ventrell Miller, Dennis Gardeck, Branson Combs, and Jalen McLeod. Yasir Abdullah is fighting a losing battle for a roster spot, but he's still competing hard.
The safety position is also seeing some changes, with Eric Murray, Antonio Johnson, Caleb Ransaw, Rayuan Lane III, and Jalen Huskey projected to make the roster. Jalen Huskey had a strong showing in his first game action as a Jaguar, and he's now competing for a roster spot.
With cut-down day just around the corner, the Jaguars are making their final decisions about which players will make the 53-man roster. The team's young players are fighting for spots, and it's anyone's guess who will make the cut. The Jaguars will announce their final roster on August 30, and fans will be eagerly waiting to see which players make the team.
Source: Yahoo Sports