3 potential trade destinations for Jaguars C Luke Fortner
• Here are 3 potential landing spots for the 3-year center.
The Jacksonville Jaguars need to bolster the center position in the offseason. Incumbent Luke Fortner was the weakest link on an offensive line that struggled to protect Trevor Lawrence and open lanes in the running game. While general manager Trent Baalke believes Fortner has the tools to play well, the Jags cannot afford to go one more season with him as the starting center.
Fortunately for Jacksonville, there are several paths they can take to bolster the center position. They could go after a grizzled veteran in free agency or use a draft pick (Jackson Powers-Johnson anyone?). Either way, adding an upgrade should be one of the top priorities.
Once they do, the Jags need to decide with to do with Fortner. Should he remain on the roster? That's most definitely a possibility. On the other hand, the team's brass should consider placing the former Kentucky Wildcat on the trade block.
As much as Fortner has struggled the past two seasons, he could indeed improve if given the chance. Maybe he will benefit from a fresh start somewhere else. The fact that he's made 34 consecutive starts and has played every possible offensive snap during his stint in Jacksonville could make him an enticing trade chip.
It's hard to imagine the Jaguars getting more than a sixth-rounder for Fortner but they could use whatever compensation they get as ammo to trade up in the draft. In the worst-case scenario, they can look for a developmental prospect in the draft with the selection they get. Who knows? Maybe the front office can find a center to develop. With that in mind, here are three potential landing spots for Fortner.