3 Jacksonville Jaguars players who have exceeded expectations in 2023

• The Jaguars built a well-rounded roster

• They're 5-2 heading into Week 8

• These 3 players have played a huge role

Jacksonville Jaguars v New Orleans Saints
Jacksonville Jaguars v New Orleans Saints / Cooper Neill/GettyImages
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The Jacksonville Jaguars are 5-2 following the 31-24 win over the New Orleans Saints. One of the reasons for their recent success is their roster is filled with lots of talent. Trevor Lawrence has picked up where he left off last year and Josh Allen has been among the most dominant pass rushers in the league this year.

Also, safety Andre Cisco, linebacker Foyesade Oluokun, and wide receiver Christian Kirk are playing at a Pro Bowl level. That said, they are not the only players on the Jaguars' roster performing at a high level. There are a handful others who have played surprisingly well this season. In particular, these three have stood out.

No. 3 Jaguars player who's exceeded expectations in 2023: Anton Harrison, OT

It may be odd to bring Anton Harrison as someone who's exceeded expectations, given that he's a first-round pick. But some players need more time than others to hit their stride and the former Oklahoma Sooner most definitely struggled early in his rookie campaign.

Harrison was mostly fine as a pass protector in the opener but didn't fare well in the running game. Then, he struggled to stop defensive lineman Chris Jones in Week 2, in what he dubbed his welcome to the NFL moment. At the time, the decision to let Jawaan Taylor walk in free agency and draft Harrison 27th overall didn't look great but the latter has turned the corner since then.

In recent weeks, Harrison has been much better in pass protection and the running game. His best performance of the season might've come against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 6, when he gave up no sacks or pressures on 37 blocking snaps. And against the Saints on Thursday Night Football, he was pivotal in ensuring Trevor Lawrence was protected.

Anton Harrison will probably experience a few rough moments the rest of the way but he will also keep making strides. Don't be surprised if he's put it all together by the end of the season.