Can these Jacksonville Jaguars players avoid sophomore slumps?
Members of the Jacksonville Jaguars 2016 rookie class made an immediate impact. Now can those Jaguars avoid declines in production during their second years.
Taking a quick look at the rookies from the 2016 NFL Draft shows that the Jacksonville Jaguars found some quality, instant fits. But one year of production isn’t good enough at the NFL level and these players will have to continue to prove themselves in year two.
Yannick Ngakoue
Tied a Jags rookie record with eight sacks. He also forced two fumbles and secured an interception. Moving forward, Ngakoue will need to continue to develop at the defensive end position to avoid a slump in his second year. If anyone is a candidate for lower stats this season it’s Ngakoue. He was a bit of a surprise last season and his production will be tough to repeat. Yet Ngakoue will continue to play hard and expect him to continue to develop in year two.
Jalen Ramsey
Was a shooting star in his first season with the Jaguars. Ramsey came in as a rookie and was a shutdown defender most of the season. He totaled 65 tackles, two interceptions, and one returned for a touchdown. Entering the 2017 season there is no doubt Ramsey will look to develop and continue his dominance at the cornerback position. Pairing Ramsey with A.J Bouye will make it difficult for quarterbacks to decide who to throw on. Of these three players in this article, Ramsey shows the least chance of slowing down.
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Dante Fowler Jr.
In his first healthy year with the Jags, Fowler totaled 32 tackles and four sacks. Fowler has to avoid another season like this or he would fail to live up to his third overall draft selection in 2015. However there are reasons he can turn it around. Fowler will benefit from the presence of the Jags veteran linemen Abry Jones and Malik Jackson. He will need to take advantage of these opportunities in his third year. With a year to adjust, look for Fowler to continue to develop and break out of a sophomore slump.
Finally, the Jaguars need to keep developing their young talent. In order to stay competitive in the AFC South the Jags mentioned above will be play a crucial role. As the offseason continues keep an eye on the development of these three players. If these Jags can continue their development than game-days this fall will be even more exciting.