Jaguars ranked last in league in recent NFL.com poll
By David Levin
Even with the additions the Jaguars have so far this offseason, the subtractions from the roster leave the team at the bottom of the NFL list of teams.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have released big-named veterans, trade a few to other teams and are looking to make a big splash in the NFL Draft with 12 selections in April.
Still, with all the changes to the roster and the hope that addition by subtraction will work for the roster and front office, this franchise is ranked last in the most recent NFL.com poll compiled by Dan Hanzus.
While I do not like my team starting off at the lowest point it can, there is only one way to move. I’m trying to be optimistic in a very trying time for Jaguars football.
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"“The Jags are starting over. Cornerback A.J. Bouye, defensive lineman Calais Campbell and quarterback Nick Foles were all moved in trades after last year’s grim 6-10 finish. Pass rusher Yannick Ngakoue is a legitimate tag-and-trade candidate,” Hanzus writes."
The numbers don’t lie. The offense was couldn’t move out of a wet paper bag at times, scoring just 18.8 points a game in 2019. The defense fell apart for most of the season, with a run defense that was scary to watch at times. The passing game was 16th in the NFL last season and the running game was 17th overall, giving many Jaguars fans hope for this season.
But the changes the team has made, specifically on the offensive side of the ball show a franchise that is becoming younger, which might not translate to better this coming year.
"“Yes, a youth movement is on in Jacksonville, and Gardner Minshew looks like he’ll get the chance to lead the way,” Hanzus adds. “Several notable veteran QB options remain on the market, but the Jaguars would be wise to give Minshew a full season to show what he can do. This will be a developmental year for the franchise; why put a 30-something QB under center?”"
The Jaguars have over $20M remaining in the salary cap to use in free agency. They are one of the youngest teams in the league at an average of 25.43 years of age. If Minshew, along with running back Leonard Fournette and wide receiver DJ Chark can continue to grow together, it might prove the front office made the right moves this offseason.
Add new offensive coordinator Jay Gruden to the coaching staff and there should be some optimism for the team despite a national belief they will fight for another top-five draft pick in 2021.
Hanzus still thinks the chances of the team winning more than losing in 2020 is very slim.