3 reasons the Jacksonville Jaguars got it right with TE Brenton Strange in Round 2

1. Brenton Strange can become the Jacksonville Jaguars No. 1 tight end in 2024

When teams scout prospects, NFL clubs project what kind of role they can have in the pros. Whether those players end up living up to expectations is a whole different issue but the Jags surely think Brenton Strange can develop into a solid starter. Otherwise, they wouldn't have used an early-round pick on him.

So what exactly do the Jaguars' brass expect from Strange? Certainly, not to be a Day 1 starter, and barring injury, he won't get significant playing time in 2023. First, he'll first need to beat Luke Farrell and Gerrit Prince for the No. 2 tight end job. But given the investment the front office made in him, he will get every possible chance to earn it.

So let's say Strange is the No. 2 behind Engram in 2023. He is a better receiver than Chris Manhertz is and he's also an adequate blocker, which should help him earn playing time early on. It's not farfetched to see Strange playing 38 percent of the offensive snaps, the same amount Manhertz logged last year.

The fact that Strange won't get a feature role on offense right off the bat and will instead learn behind Engram should allow him to focus on refining his skills during his rookie campaign. Similarly, not being the top tight end on the depth chart should take some pressure off his shoulders.

If Strange ends up making a good impression on the team's brass throughout the year, they will have an easier time moving on from Engram. Conversely, if Strange struggles, the Jacksonville Jaguars can bring back Engram or invest an early-round pick in the position. Either way, the team's brass will have flexibility at tight end.