Jacksonville Jaguars QB competition won’t end yet, Day 17 observations

How will the Jacksonville Jaguars’ interior O-Line fare versus the Saints?

Cam Robinson and Jawaan Taylor have made strides this offseason but if either offensive tackle needed to miss time, either Walker Little or Will Richardson could slide into the Jaguars’ starting lineup. What about the Jaguars’ interior offensive line though? Their depth will most likely be tested in Week 2 of the preseason.

Right guard A.J. Cann missed Friday’s practice and could miss Monday’s matchup. Head coach Urban Meyer said the veteran was out after having an inconclusive COVID-19 test. But because he’s vaccinated, he could return as soon as Saturday. Center Brandon Linder is dealing with patella tendonitis and won’t likely suit up against the Saints.

Then, there’s left guard Andrew Norwell, who missed the Jags’ Week 1 matchup and hasn’t practiced in several days. If there’s a silver lining is that sophomore Ben Bartch could step in for him. He played 26 offensive snaps against the Saints and posted a Pro Football Focus overall grade of 74.6. The 2020 fourth-round pick could use this opportunity to make an impression.

If Linder misses the game, which is likely, veteran Tyler Shatley will start once again. He worked with quarterback Trevor Lawrence on Friday, per Mia O’Brien of First Coast News. It looks like the coaching staff is preparing to be without Linder on Monday. If Cann is a “no go”, it will be interesting whom the Jaguars chose to take his place in the lineup. Third-year offensive lineman Darwin Gray is an option. The 2019 seventh-round selection played 41 snaps in the preseason opener.