The game against the Miami Dolphins in Week 3 of the preseason gave the Jacksonville Jaguars an opportunity to fine-tune things before the regular season starts. It also provided players seeking to move up the depth chart or fighting for a roster spot one last opportunity to make an impression.
For their part, Trevor Lawrence and the starting offense looked sharp (with the exception of a fumble on the first drive). Similarly, the defense came through and limited the Phins' offense to four field goals in the first three quarters.
On the other hand, several players on the fringe made the most of their playing time in the preseason finale. In particular, these three saw their stock soar.
No. 3 Jaguars player with a soaring stock after the win vs. the Dolphins: Erick Hallett II, S
The Jaguars' safety room isn't necessarily a strength ahead of the 2023 season but it isn't a weakness either. Andre Cisco and Rayshawn Jenkins are firmly entrenched as the starters, with Andrew Wingard providing solid depth in case either one misses time. However, the rest of the depth chart is still being sorted out.
Rookie Antonio Johnson missed the Miami game with a hamstring injury but should have a good shot of making the 53-man roster. This could leave one spot up for grabs. Based on his performance in the finale, maybe Erick Hallett II will end up getting it.
A sixth-round pick in this year's draft, Hallett had an interception against the Dolphins. Although he isn't going the earn a roster spot on the strength of a takeaway, he had a productive training camp. Moreover, his versatility to line up in the slot and safety could ultimately give him the edge over veteran Daniel Thomas, who's got starting experience but may have already reached his ceiling.
No. 2 Jaguars player with a soaring stock after the win vs. the Dolphins: Yasir Abdullah, OLB
Rookie Yasir Abdullah wasn't probably competing for a roster spot ahead of the finale. The Jaguars need to round out their rotation and they don't have many appealing options beyond the former Louisville Cardinal.
Abdulla, picked in Round 5, was dubbed a hidden gem following the draft but he was mostly a non-factor in training camp. He's made up for it by having a promising preseason. Against the Dallas Cowboys, he had three total tackles and a sack. He wasn't nearly as productive against the Detroit Lions but once again flashed against the Miami Dolphins in the finale, intercepting a pass off quarterback Skylar Thompson.
Easy pick for Yasir Abdullah ‼️
— NFL (@NFL) August 27, 2023
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You could argue that Thompson's pass was underthrown and you would be right but Abdullah deserves praise for not putting his opportunity to waste. Although he needs to keep refining his game, he's probably done enough to pass fellow outside linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson on the depth chart.
Back in training camp, head coach Doug Pederson said Chaisson was No. 3 behind Travon Walker and Josh Allen and could earn a bigger role depending on how he fair in the preseason. After three games though, it's hard to see him be above Abdullah on the depth chart.
It's important to note that the Jaguars' brass likes Chaisson and could still keep him even though he hasn't lived up to his draft billing. Having said that, he shouldn't get playing time at Abdulla's expense. Simply, the rookie has earned an opportunity to become an important piece in the pass rotation.
No. 1 Jaguars player with a soaring stock after the win vs. the Dolphins: Tim Jones, WR
A handful of wide receivers have gotten into a heated competition for the fifth and sixth spots on the roster ahead of the 2023 season. Some of them have made an impression since training camp but it's fair to say that Tim Jones has had the best preseason of the bunch.
Although Jones had somewhat of a quiet outing in the opener against the Dallas Cowboys, he reeled in a 48-yard catch that helped put Jacksonville in a position to sore. He continued the streak of big plays against the Dolphins, hauling in a 74-yard reception that he took to the end zone.
74 yards to the house for Tim Jones 🏠
— NFL (@NFL) August 27, 2023
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Last year, Jones solidified his chances of making the Jaguars' 53-man roster with a productive preseason. It looks like lightning could strike twice based on his performance the last two games. Now, it's important to note that he isn't the only Jaguars receiver that has shined in the offseason.
In particular, Seth Williams, who had two catches for 50 yards against Miami, Jacob Harris, and Elijah Cooks have also made plays throughout the preseason, so Jones isn't a lock to make the team. Having said that, he should feel good about his chances. The Jags like him for his blocking prowess and his ability to contribute on special teams.
Even though Jones wasn't much of a factor once the regular season began — three catches for 30 yards — it's possible that he will have a bigger impact with a year of experience under his belt and yet another fruitful preseason.

