5 Jaguars players to monitor vs. the Cowboys in Week 1 of the preseason

The preseason gives players the chance to get ready for the regular season. This is why it wasn't particularly surprising to learn that head coach Doug Pederson wants to see the starters play a few series against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1.

You could argue that the Jags are better off resting their starters for the regular season, but as Pederson noted, playing a couple of series allows them to get a feel for the game. That said, the coaching staff won't learn much from watching Trevor Lawrence or wide receiver Calvin Ridley play.

However, there are other Jaguars players that should get a closer look in the preseason and could benefit from a strong performance, including the next five.

No. 5 Jaguars player to watch in Preseason Week 1: Nathan Rourke. QB

Trevor Lawrence and C.J. Beathard have a roster spot guaranteed regardless of how the preseason plays out. But the same can't be said for Nathan Rourke, who needs to show he's deserving of being QB3 on the depth chart. A Canada native, Rourke suited up for the BC Lions in the CFL before signing with the Jags in January.

The team's brass didn't bring in any other quarterbacks to training camp and instead, let Rourke hone his skills. During an exchange with the local media, offensive coordinator Press Taylor praised him for the work he's put in and added that he would get lots of opportunities in the preseason.

Lawrence will be on the field for one, maybe two series against the Cowboys. Beathard will then play one or two quarters before he paves the way for Rourke, who could play one half or even a bit more in Week 1.