5 Jaguars players most likely to be inactive on game day in 2023

No. 4 Jaguars player most likely to be inactive on game day: Cole Van Lanen, OL

Throughout the offseason and a good chunk of training camp, left guard seemed like a need for the Jaguars. In fact, it was suggested they look for outside help (guilty as charged). However, things have changed since then.

The main reason left guard was seen as a weakness was that Ben Bartch was still recovering from the dislocated knee he suffered last year and it was uncertain if he wasn't going to be fully healthy for the season opener. Bartch's availability for Week 1 is no longer in question. He played a bit in the season finale and has had no setbacks over the last few weeks. He'll line up at left guard when Jacksonville takes on the Indianapolis Colts.

Another reason for concern was Tyler Shatley. At 32, he's no spring chicken — at least when it comes to football — and there were questions about whether the Jaguars should add depth to the interior offensive line. To make matters worse, Shatley dealt with AFib in early August and had to miss several practices and a couple preseason games. He's now back in the mix and he'll be the top backup on the interior line.

This could potentially leave offensive guard Cole Van Lanen as the odd man out. The 2021 sixth-round draft pick joined Jacksonville via trade last year but didn't get much playing time. Barring injuries, the Jaguars won't suit up him on game day, especially after rookie Cooper Hodgers returns from short Injured Reserve.