5 former Jacksonville Jaguars players who could thrive on new teams in 2023

3. Jacksonville Jaguars player who could thrive on a new team: Gardner Minshew

The Jacksonville Jaguars didn't have many bright spots or highlights before last season. However, Gardner Minshew gave fans a reason for optimism in 2019. Dave Caldwell had signed Nick Foles to be the starting quarterback but Minshew ended up seizing the job and rewarded the Jags with an electrifying rookie campaign.

The former Washington State Cougar ended up completing 60.63 percent of his passes for 3,271 yards with 21 touchdowns and just six interceptions, which earned him a chance to show he was the long-term answer at the position

Unfortunately, Minshew wasn't able to pick up where he left off in 2019 and struggled in his sophomore campaign. The fact that he hid a thumb injury from the coaching staff didn't help his case and was benched in favor of then-rookie Jake Luton at the midpoint of the 2020 season.

Although Minshew got another chance after Luton faltered, he didn't do much with the opportunity he was granted and was benched once again. This time in favor of journeyman Mike Glennon.

Once the Jaguars drafted Trevor Lawrence, Minshew's fate with the Black and Teal was sealed. He said he wanted to compete for a job and he wasn't going to be able to do it in Jacksonville. The mustachioed signal-caller ended up splitting reps with his rookie counterpart early in training camp but was shipped to the Philadelphia Eagles after the first preseason game.

Minshew spent the last two seasons backing up Jalen Hurts in Philly but fared well when called up, completing 62.5 percent of his throws for 1,102 yards with seven touchdowns and four interceptions. Although those aren't the kind of numbers that pop off of the stat sheet, Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen (his offensive coordinator with the Eagles) brought him with him and will give him a shot to compete for the starting job.

The Colts are expected to draft a quarterback in the first round. However, Minshew will have the chance to hold onto the job and prove he can be a capable starting quarterback. It's up to him to make the most of his opportunity.