Why didn’t the Jaguars improve the offensive line?
By Kathy Clark
The Jaguars didn’t do enough to improve the offensive line during the off season.
The offensive line was the weakest group on the team according to numerous reporters. The offensive line of 2015 the most penalties of any line in the NFL.
The line ranked 19 in pass blocking and 22 in run blocking. Also the 2015 offensive line allowed a less than stellar 34 sacks. The running game averaged under four yards a carry. The line had numerous injuries in 2015. That was a factor in the poor performance.
SUGGESTIONS
Ryan Day at Big Cat Country suggested that the Jags pick up the option on Kelvin Beachum. He is now with the Jets. Luke Joeckel was released by the Jags. He now starts at left guard for the Seattle Seahawks. Jeremy Parnell allowed a team high 7.5 sacks. He is still on the team. The line had numerous injuries in 2016. The team offense starts with the offensive line. If the running backs can’t run and the quarterbacks can’t find open receivers then it’s time to look at the offensive line.
2017 LINE TO DATE
The following players are starters on the Jaguars offensive line; Center Brandon Linder, Right Guard A.J. Cann, Left Guard Patrick Omameh, Left Tackle Cam Robinson, and Right Tackle Jermey Parnell. All these starters were on the 2016 team except Cam Robinson. There are currently fifteen offensive linemen on the Jaguars roster. There are only four that were not on the team in 2016. In essence, we the line is almost the same as in 2016. Obviously, someone at a management level felt our personnel was adequate for the job.
2017 QUARTERBACK DECISION
The Jaguars announced that Blake Bortles will be the starting quarterback for the opening game against the Houston Texans. Marrone explained to the media that it is the escape ability of Bortles who is able to move outside the pocket. The offensive line is unable to open holes for the running backs or pass protect.
SUMMING UP
Most sports writers spent the off season focused on the poor quarterback play. The offensive line was mentioned as more of an after thought. No one watched the 2017 pre season games without mentioning the poor o line play. Jon Gruden said it best. The offensive line can’t block and the quarterbacks can’t pass. Sadly, the quarterback doesn’t have time to pass. The line can’t be rebuilt in one year but more could have and should have been done. Doug Marrone is an offensive line coach and should have understood the weakness. The waiver wires will be open for business soon. Let’s hope for a hidden jewel.