The offseason program gives players the chance to hone their skills and get acclimated to the scheme. However, teams cannot truly assess players until they put the pads on. Heck, if you struggle without pads, that's kind of a bad thing. Fortunately for the Jacksonville Jaguars, they had a strong offseason, and it carried into their first padded practice on Day 5 of training camp.
While the Jags may need to clean up a few things, Liam Coen brougth up protection as an area where the team can improve — they were surely thrilled to see players meet the moment. These five, in particular, stole the spotlight on Day 5 of camp.
Anton Harrison, Jaguars offensive tackle
Anton Harrison has been lining up at left tackle while Cole Van Lanen recovers from a knee injury he sustained late in 2025. Tony Boselli previously stated that we shouldn't read too much into it, pointing out that the team just wanted their offensive linemen to play different positions in case the injury bug strikes. That said, it's hard not to read between the lines.
John Shipley of Sports Illustrated says Day 5 was the most dominant Harrison has looked, while Coen says that maybe it sticks long-term.
Regardless of where Harrison ends up lining up next season, though, he should be in a great position to ask for a substantial pay bump.
Ruke Orhorhoro, Jaguars defensive tackle
The Jaguars threw a curveball when they traded for Ruke Orhorhoro just before the draft. At the time, the interior defensive line was their biggest need, but rather than add a defensive tackle in what seemingly was a poor crop, they bet on the former Clemson Tiger.
Orhorhoro flashed potential with the Atlanta Falcons even though he was playing out of position. He's wasted no time showcasing his pass-rush capabilities in Duval.
Mia O'Brien of ESPN Radio says Orhorhoro beat Wyatt Millum and Ezra Cleveland during Day 5 of training camp. At this pace, he's putting in a strong bid to earn a significant role on the defensive line rotation.
Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars receiver
Brian Thomas Jr. and Trevor Lawrence have been working on their connection dating back to the offseason program. All the work paid off on Day 5 of camp, with No. 16 finding BTJ in a deep shot.
Coming at ya! 💥@Dream_Finders | #DUUUVAL pic.twitter.com/9itZkDOPFW
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) August 3, 2026
That wasn't the only time they connected, but it certainly was the most notable one. Moreover, Thomas has been consistent throughout training camp. At this point, it's fair to say that his struggles in 2025 are in the rearview mirror.
Chris Rodriguez, Jaguars running back
The Jaguars waited for several months but were finally able to see what Chris Rodriguez can do. He didn't disappoint, trucking safety Caleb Ransaw in his first practice with the team, which coincidentally was the first time Jacksonville wore pads.
Rodriguez missed the offseason program after undergoing foot surgery earlier this year. He did individual drills in the first days of camp, but his workload has steadily increased. Based on the early signs, the Jags probably didn't mind waiting.
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