3 Jaguars players with trade value who could garner interest after the preseason
• They'll have some tough decisions to make
• These three players have some trade value
No. 1 Jaguars player with trade value following the preseason: Nathan Rourke, QB
The Jaguars have a top-10 quarterback in Trevor Lawrence and a reliable backup in C.J. Beathard. The expectation is that Lawrence will play every single snap but if he misses time, Beathard can come off the bench and keep the offense afloat. This could pose a conundrum for Jacksonville.
Nathan Rourke signed with the Jaguars earlier this year and he's had a productive preseason. He caught everyone's attention in the opener against the Dallas Cowboys when he escaped the pass rush to connect with running back Quadree Ollison for a touchdown. He's also shown touch and accuracy when given the chance.
This could make him a candidate for the QB2 job if Beathard weren't on the roster, so the Jags will need to decide whether they'll carry Rourke into the season or sign him to the practice squad. An alternative would be to either shop him around or entertain trade offers. Teams in need of a backup quarterback could get on the phone with Trent Baalke and inquire about Rourke.
On one hand, Rourke provides insurance at the most important position on the football field. On the other hand, he might never see the field in Jaguars uniform, so he'll need to compete for the chance to be QB2 somewhere else.
The Atlanta Falcons and the Washington Commanders are still sorting out their respective quarterback rooms and Rourke would probably have the chance to earn the No. 2 job with either team. Again, keeping Rourke around would make sense but if the Jaguars think they can do without him, they should then trade him before the start of the 2023 season.
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