Jacksonville Jaguars: 3 way-too-early needs in 2022
Jacksonville Jaguars way-too-early number three need: Backup QB
After several failed attempts in the past, it seems like the Jaguars finally found a franchise quarterback in Trevor Lawrence. If he turns out to be the big deal (there’s no reason to believe he won’t), Jacksonville won’t have to worry about addressing the position over the next ten years.
On the other hand, the Jags should have a competent backup quarterback in case Lawrence misses time with injuries. Gardner Minshew is currently number two on the depth chart, but it’s unknown if he will remain in Jacksonville next season. The 2019 sixth-round pick could request a trade or teams could come calling again after inquiring about his availability earlier this year.
Even if Minshew stays in Duval, he will be a free agent in 2023, so the Jags could draft a quarterback in next year’s selection meeting and groom him to be their backup quarterback. CJ Beatheard is currently behind the Washington State product on the depth chart and Jake Luton started three games as a rookie in 2020. However, neither of them hasn’t shown they can be a solid number two while Minshew ranked 23rd in a recent quarterback list not too long ago.
At first sight, it doesn’t look like backup quarterback will be at the top of the Jaguars’ offseason to-do list in 2022. Nevertheless, the front office should make it a priority. After all, having a good number two is like having insurance. It’s better to have one and not use him than needing one and not having him.