Second-Round Pick D.J. Chark Signs Rookie Deal With The Jaguars
By David Levin
The Jacksonville Jaguars announced late Friday that second-round draft pick, D.J. Chark, has signed his rookie contract with the team.
The terms of the deal were not disclosed. Chark is expected to challenge for a starting role in the Jaguars offense this season and has looked impressive in the first three OTAs on the practice field adjacent to TIAA Bank Field.
"“This is amazing,” Chark Jr. said via Jaguars.com. “It is something you dream about your whole life and to finally put your name on that piece of paper to solidify that you are indeed a player here is a surreal moment. I can’t even put it in words right now.”"
With the signing, the lone remaining rookie unsigned is first-round defensive lineman Taven Bryan out of Florida.
Chark’s size will be a valuable asset in the red zone for Jaguars offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett this season. His height, 6-foot-4 is intriguing and his speed, which was the best at the NFL Combine at 4.34 in the 40-yard dash, will force defensive backs to play more man coverage, especially on the deep route.
It’s believed Chark will also help the Jaguars in the return game. He could replace Jaydon Mickens as the team’s punt returner.
Not only has the coaching staff been impressed with DJ Chark and his chance to help this organization, general manager Dave Caldwell told the media the night the team drafted him he was worried he would have to trade up to grab the former LSU talent.
"“It’s a pick not just for our passing game but our running game, too. When you have a guy with that kind of speed, teams have to be cognizant of him making big plays down the field,” he said."
Where Chark fits in the wide receiver rotation is yet to be determined. Jacksonville re-signed Marqise Lee to a new deal and added Donte Moncrief from the Indianapolis Colts. There are as many as three other wide receivers who figure to get a look at the roster, with as many as six possibly being kept for the upcoming season.
Chark’s ability to help on special teams makes him even more valuable when it comes time to decide who will stay on the 53-man roster and who will either be cut or added to the team’s practice squad.