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Chris Clemons Reports For Mandatory Minicamp

By Daniel Lago

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For the second straight year, veteran defensive end Chris Clemons has skipped the entirety of the voluntary portion of the Jacksonville Jaguars offseason practices, and he is now reporting in for the mandatory minicamps.

We’ve discussed Clemons missing the voluntary OTAs and how it really isn’t too big of a deal in the grand scheme of things, but it was somewhat discouraging to see someone is supposed to be a leader on the defensive side of the ball opting out of the first full team activities, especially in light of the season ending injury to rookie first round pick Dante Fowler Jr.

While his absence likely won’t affect his performance come the regular season, it does nothing to help deviate attention from his up-and-down first season with the Jaguars.

"If anything, there were already question marks about how much Clemons could contribute given his inconsistency last year. Despite his 8 sacks, Clemons failed to provide consistent pressure from the edge, hence the team drafting Fowler with the third overall pick. Pro Football Focus gave Clemons a 5.8 Pass Rush Productivity rating, the 4th worst rating of all 4-3 defensive ends in the NFL."

Let’s make it clear, Clemons is only reporting because the practice is mandatory and he did not want to face a fine of up to $72,920. That’s how most veteran players who skip the voluntary practice in the offseason go about their business, and Clemons is no different. The Jaguars need Clemons to play a big part this season, so hopefully this is the last we’ll hear about this particular issue.

Next: T.J. Yeldon is a 'Heck of a Player'

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