Although it wasn't at the top of their priority list, backup quarterback was a key need for the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason. With Mac Jones leaving, they chose to bring in someone who's familiar with offensive coordinator Grant Udinski.
Mike Garofolo of NFL Media reports that the Jaguars reached an agreement with Nick Mullens for a two-year deal worth $6.5 million with $3 million guaranteed. Michael DiRocco of ESPN also confirmed the news.
This doesn't come as as surprise. While there was a chance Jones could return, there were no reports that the Jags were planning to bring him back. Bringing in Mullens to back up Trevor Lawrence makes sense when you take into account that he's
Mullens began his NFL career with the San Francisco 49ers. He also spent a year with the Cleveland Browns before joining the Vikes in 2022. He's appeared in a total of 33 games with 20 starts and has completed 65.8 percent of his passes for 6,429 yards with 34 touchdowns and 31 interceptions.
While the Jaguars still have their work cut out, they no longer have to worry about the backup position behind center. They had several options in free agency but opted for one who's previously worked with Udinski.
Earlier this offseason, the Jaguars and Liam Coen raised eyebrows when they hired Udinski as their offensive coordinator. The issue wasn't that he lacked prior experience on the job but rather that he's just 29 years old. Then again, everyone in the Vikings organization raved about the ascending offensive mind.
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What does the signing of Nick Mullens mean for the Jaguars?
Trevor Lawrence is firmly entrenched as the starter. In fact, most of the moves the Jacksonville Jaguars make, including those in the coaching staff, will be to ensure the franchise quarterback is in a position to succeed.
This is to say that whatever quarterback the Jags chose to bring in would come in to back Lawrence up. Simple as that. Mullens has never been a starting-caliber quarterback, but he could carry the team on his back for a few games in case No. 16 misses a few games.
Sure, a reunion with Gardner Minshew would've made sense because he was drafted but the Jaguars, but Mullens has proven to be a dependable backup throughout his career. Moreover, the front office could still add a developmental prospect in the draft.
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