4 things Jaguars can learn from Bengals’ historic rebuild
By Jack McCoy
2. The Jaguars must keep Trevor Lawrence safe.
The terrible Bengals offensive line last year was partially responsible for Burrow’s torn ACL and improved offensive line talent gave the young quarterback more time to let deep routes develop this year. For Jacksonville’s offense to reach new heights, Lawrence’s protection will need to improve.
The Jags have been connected to draft prospects such as Evan Neal, Charles Cross, and Ikem Ekwonu, and any one of these tackles could provide immediate impact in 2022-23. Free agents such as tackle Terron Armstead and guard Brandon Scherff could bolster the line as well.
But before the Jags make any moves this offseason, they need to decide what they will do with their own pending free agents. Offensive linemen Cam Robinson, Andrew Norwell, A.J. Cann and reserve Tyler Shatley are set to hit the open market and the front office needs to choose who will be back and that could have a big impact on Jacksonville’s strategy.
If the Jaguars give Robinson a long-term deal, would they still draft Neal? Similarly, would they pay a premium for Brandon Scherff in free agency? This is something the team’s brass needs to assess over the next few weeks.