Jaguars seek to find sources of receiving yards

Second round pick DJ Chark could be set for a big year as the Jaguars move into the next generation of wide receivers. Photo: Jaguars.com

By Dustin Fletcher | gargoyle@flagler.edu

This season, the Jaguars will be earmarked as a leading contender to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl this year behind their “Sacksonville” front seven and their ground and pound rushing attack with Leonard Fournette and an improved offensive line after signing All-Pro left guard Andrew Norwell in the offseason.

One major concern fans could have in the season is where the team’s receptions will come from. With mainstay tight end Marcedes Lewis in Green Bay, receivers Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns in Chicago and Dallas respectively, and with Marquise Lee on the surgery table, a few, clear offensive gaps were opened up. And with the end of wide receiver Arrelious Benn’s contract, more questions arise.

With those players out, the Jaguars lose over 1,500 receiving yards from last season. Robinson could do over 1,000 alone if healthy.

To fill this void, in steps a mix of old and new faces. Returning are the starting tight end Austin Sefarian-Jenkins, last season’s leading receiver Keelan Cole, and a mix of young talent and veterans. The production could also come from running back with Leonard Fournette receiving for around 300 yards last season, and T.J. Yeldon receiving for around 225 yards as a third down specialist.

The natural replacement for Robinson is 2018 second round draftee, D.J. Chark. As a 6’4” physical receiver, he plays with a similar style to Robinson, and can fill that void if he is NFL ready.

Dede Westbrook also had a strong finish to last season. He was a productive player in Oklahoma and finished last season strong, and because of that, could be a candidate for the slot receiver job along with veteran Donte Moncrief.

Although we won’t know until Sept. 9 when the Jaguars face the New York Giants how well the team will move the ball through the air, if the preseason and last year’s playoff game against New England are any indicators, Jaguars fans have a lot to be excited for.