Jacksonville Jaguars thriving despite injuries, other observations

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ 2021 rookie class is coming along slowly.

The Jaguars acquired several key contributors in free agency. However, their draft class has underperformed, quarterback Trevor Lawrence notwithstanding. Other than the former Clemson Tiger, no other rookie has made a meaningful impact this season. Cornerback Tyson Campbell played a lot before missing the last two games but he wasn’t particularly effective.

Jacksonville’s other 2021 second-round pick, Walker Little was inactive in the first two weeks of the season and hasn’t played a single snap on offense. Meanwhile, safety Andre Cisco has seen his playing time decrease in recent weeks and has been mostly relegated to special teams. Jay Tufele made his NFL debut in Week 5 but suffered a hand injury during warmups just before the game in London.

Meyer spoke about the strides the Jaguars’ 2021 draft class has made.

"Cisco’s getting very close, he’d be the next one. Walker Little, it just takes a little bit of time but we’re really happy with him. He’s going to be a good player in the NFL, George [Warhop] loves him. Obviously, Travis Etienne, Tyson Campbell is the starting quarter for us. Jay Tufele, the reason we activated him, he really was coming on and then he gets hurt. And then Jordan Smith is still working progress right now. Luke Farrell, he’s what we thought, maybe a little better."

Tight end Luke Farrell had a 21-yard reception in Week 6 but has otherwise been quiet in 2021, catching five receptions for 46 yards. Then again, expecting a fifth-round pick to become an All-Pro in his first year in the NFL would be unrealistic. On the other hand, edge rusher Jordan Smith may have a hard time earning playing time in the Jaguars’ defensive line rotation this season. He’s been inactive all season long. It’s clear he’s not ready yet.

Maybe they all need more time to develop. Some of them need to get healthier but their impact or lack thereof is one of several reasons why Jacksonville has managed to win just one game this season.