Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence: Luke OL Fortner has made huge jump

Offensive lineman Luke Fortner was the first offensive player the Jacksonville Jaguars selected in the 2022 NFL Draft and that came until the third round. But regardless of where the Ohio native was chosen, he could find himself in the Jags’ starting lineup in Week 1 if he keeps showing improvement in training camp.

Trevor Lawrence spoke to the local media on Day 5 of training camp and touched on several topics, including running back Travis Etienne’s return from injury and the progress Fortner has made over the last few months. Lawrence had nothing but good things to say about the rookie offensive lineman and noted that he’s made strides since the spring.

"He’s been awesome, really smart guy, really athletic, moves well. I think just the jump that he’s made from the spring to camp has been huge. Seeing him in the spring still trying to figure it all out, working on your some of the calls, learning the system, all those things. Then, when he’s here for camp, now he looks great, really sharp, directing the guys up front."

Lawrence goes on to say that having veteran Tyler Shatley has been huge and believes that there’s a lot of “potential to build off” up front. Fortner appeared in 55 games with 36 starts in college. He lined up at right guard for most of his time at Kentucky but switched to guard last year.

Jaguars OL Luke Fortner starting in Week 1 seems realistic

Just a few months ago, it looked like Tyler Shatley was the first in line to replace Brandon Linder at center in 2022. After all, he got a two-year deal from the Jags earlier this year and made 18 starts, many of them at center, over the last two years.

However, it looks like the Jags are giving Fortner a chance to win the starting job at center. The former Kentucky Wildcat has gotten first-team reps throughout training camp while Shatley has been lining up at left guard.

Keep in mind that the Jaguars are yet to hold padded practices, so Fortner can’t take victory laps just yet. If he performs poorly, the coaching staff might opt to go with Shatley at center. Having said that, there’s a chance Fortner will continue to make strides in training camp and if that’s the case, he could be ready to start in Week 1.

The Jaguars’ offensive line is currently in transition, with several newcomers and a couple of positions up for grabs, including center. If Fortner can claim the starting job, the team’s brass will have one less thing to worry about.