5 Jaguars not named Mac Jones who'll benefit from a big performance vs. Buccaneers

The Jacksonville Jaguars already announced that Trevor Lawrence won't suit up for their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2 of the 2024 NFL Preseason. This will allow Mac Jones and C.J. Bethard to take the lead in the competition for a backup job.

Jones is looking to rebuild his stock following a couple of underwhelming seasons with the New England Patriots. Given that he won't get much playing time in 2024 if Lawrence stays healthy, he'll need to put as much good tape as possible against the Buccaneers. Having said that, Alabama isn't the only Jaguar with plenty at stake in Week 2 of the preseason. The following five players will also benefit from a great performance.

Jalen Jackson, running back

Every year, every NFL team has an undrafted rookie who manages to work his way up the depth chart and make the 53-man roster. Running back Jalen Jackson could be that player for the Jags in 2024. Earlier in the offseason, the Villanova looked like a longshot to make the team, but he's made the most of his chances. It also helps that Keilan Robinson, a fifth-round pick in this year's draft, has missed considerable time with a toe injury.

Special teams coach Heath Farwell has previously praised Robinson, but the longer he's unavailable, the narrower the gap between him and Jackson will get.

Against the Kansas City Chiefs in the preseason opener, Jackson toted the rock five times for 29 yards. It's uncertain how many running backs the Jaguars will carry in 2024 but if they keep four, the undrafted rookie will see his odds of seizing the last spot with a strong outing against the Buccaneers.

Joshua Cephus, wide receiver

Like Jalen Jackson, Joshua Cephus didn't hear his name called in the draft and signed with the Jags in the aftermath. The former UTSA Roadrunner had a solid offseason and made plays in training camp. However, he was underwhelming in the preseason opener, dropping a pass and hauling in a measly reception for three yards.

Right now, Cephus is competing with Tim Jones and sophomore Elijah Cooks for a roster spot. It looks like he's currently on the outside looking in, so he'll need to have a strong outing in Week 2 to keep his hopes alive.

DJ Coleman, defensive end

Sometimes players need time to work on their skills before they're ready to contribute. Defensive end D.J. Coleman is one such case. An undrafted free agent out of Mizzou in 2023, he spent his rookie season on the Jacksonville practice squad. The former Tiger spent this time working on his craft and looked improved in the offseason. He showed his progress against the Chiefs, registering two quarterback hits.

The Jaguars are looking at the pass-rush rotation behind Josh Hines-Allen, Travon Walker, and Trevis Gipson. They already waived veteran Rasheem Green but Breeland Speaks, and rookie Myles Cole remain in the mix. Coleman will have a chance to boost his stock against the Buccaneers.

Josh Proctor, safety/linebacker

Josh Proctor earned praise from Heath Farwell for his special teams play early this offseason. The Ohio State product is another undrafted free agent vying for a roster spot but he's facing an uphill battle. Listed as a safety, he's moved to linebacker because the coaching staff wants to see what he can do at the position.

The trouble is that Jacksonville is stacked at both linebacker and safety, so Proctor has his work cut out to make the team. Regardless of what position he plays, he could ultimately get the nod if stands out on special teams.

Javon Foster, offensive tackle

Cam Robinson and Walker Little are locked in the competition for the starting job at left tackle. Both will need to put their best foot forward in Week 2 of the preseason. On the other hand, the coaching staff will also want to give rookie Javon Foster a look.

A fourth-round pick in this year's draft, the former Mizzou Tiger must work on his fundamentals and the preseason will give him a chance to do precisely that. By watching him play, the Jaguars' brass will have a clearer picture of their offensive tackle room and how they'll proceed in the upcoming months and next year.

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