Day 2 Primer. Ready for Rounds 2 and 3?

Yes! We’ve done it! WR Justin Blackmon is coming to Jacksonville and the city is buzzing with excitement! Can you tell from my exclamation points how excited I am?! I’m sure somewhere Gabbert is using exclamation points too! Imagine Blackmon and Robinson, one and two. The Jags are far from done, however, and I certainly hope you are nerding out as much as we are here at B&T. Here’s a few guys I’ve got my eye on tonight.

Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall: This is our pass rushing defensive end. He’s explosive off the edge, strong, and has a knack for causing fumbles. He was named Conference USA defensive player of the year. He netted 11 sacks, seven forced fumbles, and 22 tackles for loss. He’s relentless, mean, and doesn’t quit. This is the definition of a “high motor guy.” He has good closing speed and is solid against the run as well.

Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt: The definition of a ball-hawk, Hayward is very good at anticipating and recognizing routes. This shows as he’s had 15 interceptions the last three years. He has a knack for finding the ball, and excels in space.

Brandon Taylor, SS, LSU: Taylor is the epitome of leadership. He wore the number 18 at LSU which is a very big honor. He knows how to deal with adversity. He suffered a horrendous injury his junior year, and bounced back with a very productive senior campaign. He’s an extremely physical tackler and an even more aggressive competitor. He knows how to read and react quickly, and would provide solid depth at the safety position.

Lamar Miller, RB, Miami: Guess who is still on the board? Yes, Lamar Miller. Several mocks floating around had this guy going in the 1st, but he slid to the 2nd. Guess who we cut today? Deji Karim. Miller does a nice job filling the running lane and is a patient runner who follows his blocks. I’d LOVE to see Jacksonville get him in the 2nd. I believe I’ve voiced my opinion on how I feel about our running back situation.

Zebrie Sanders, OT, Florida State: Sanders has solid footwork and technique. He is balanced and agile as a pass blocker, and has excellent hand placement. How is he at run blocking? He’s graded out very well in every aspect of run blocking. He puts a lot of defenders on the ground, and has outstanding blocking ability while on the move.

Josh Chapman, DT, Alabama: Anyone from the Tide’s defense is OK with me! Considering the PURE situation with Knighton, I could see us going with a defensive tackle in the 3rd. If we do, I’d like to see us get Chapman. Chapman is best against the run, but his health is a concern. When healthy, I believe he’d be well worth the gamble. You can’t deny his upside.

Derek Wolfe, DT, Cincinatti: If we decide to go with a guy who is actually healthy, I think Wolfe would be a viable option as well. The pay off may not be as great, or who knows? Maybe it will be. In 2011 he had 70 tackles, 21.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and a pass break up. He became the first player in Bearcat history to earn Big East Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Just a few guys to keep an eye on…enjoy and GOJAGS!

David R. Johns