The Jacksonville Jaguars are coming off their bye, but the break may not have been enough for a couple players to get back on the field when they play the Indianapolis Colts in Week 8.
Safety Antonio Johnson and cornerback Montaric Brown are dealing with injuries, but both of them are returning to practice. However, it's uncertain if they'll suit up against Indy.
Th Jaguars may not get Antonio Johnson and Montaric Brown vs. the Colts
Head coach Liam Coen talked to the local media Wednesday. He stated that Antonio Johnson and Montaric Brown will practice, which will allow the team to assess where they stand in their recovery.
"Buster, Antonio did just a little bit, buzzed around with the training staff, and we'll be able to see it today," Coen told the press corps (13:23 mark).
Brown has been dealing with a hamstring injury that's forced him to sit out two games and play just six snaps in the Week 5 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. On the other hand, Antonio Johnson left the loss to the Houston Texans with a shoulder injury.
The Jaguars have been having trouble defending the pass this season, so they could most definitely use both of them back in Week 8. That said, rushing back may not make sense when you take into account that Jacksonville will face off against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday Night Football just four games after playing the Colts.
On a related note, Coen also said that Jacksonville will practice in pads Wednesday. You can bet that tackling and fundamentals will most likely be a point of emphasis.
Related: Liam Coen isn't resting despite the Jags' dominant winning-streak vs. the Colts
The Jaguars may be fine without Antonio Johnson and Montaric Brown
Aside from Montaric Brown, the Jaguars have been without cornerback Jaylon Jones. On top of that, Jarrian Jones has struggled the past three games. This has led to speculation that they could trade for help at the position. However, Jacksonville may not need to bring in help if Brown is healthy.
On the other hand, Rayuan Lane III would probably start next to Eric Murray if Antonio Johnson isn't good to go against the Colts, while Kaevon Merriweather would be the primary backup at safety.
Working in the Jags' favor is that they're facing an Indianapolis team that has struggled to score this season because quarterback Daniel Jones has been underwhelming. On top of that, the Colts showcased their intention to punt on the season by trading guard Quintin Nelson and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner.
Having said that, Jonathan Taylor is still around, so Jacksonville will need to ensure that he doesn't have room to run.
In the end, though, it doesn't matter if the Jaguars are facing a vulnerable Colts team. They need to show up at EverBank and set the tone early on. It's possible even if Montaric Brown and Antonio Johnson don't suit up.
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