Giving Evan Engram a long-term deal has had long-term benefits for the Jaguars

The Jacksonville Jaguars found a keeper in tight end Evan Engram. In his first season with the team, the former Ole Miss Rebel set new personal and team records. Not wanting to lose him in 2023, they applied the franchise tag on him. But just a few months later, the team's brass gave Engram a long-term deal. While he rewarded the team with yet another productive campaign, he's also had a big impact off the field, and Brenton Strange is one of the biggest beneficiaries.

Offensive coordinator Press Taylor met with the local media ahead of the game against the Atlanta Falcons in the preseason finale. He said, via Mia O'Brien of 1010 XL, that Engram is the first on the field and Strange is out there early with him as his shadow.

Demetrius Harvey of the Florida Times-Union also shared a clip of Strange doing work after practice, pointing out that Engram's work ethic probably influenced him.

A first-round pick by the New York Giants, Engram flashed his playmaking talent but was also inconsistent. Throughout his stint in the Big Apple, drops were an issue for him. It wasn't until he signed with the Jags that he was able to overcome them.

After tagging him in 2023, there was no certainty that Engram would sign a long-term deal in Jacksonville. Probably as insurance, the front office then used a second-round pick on Brenton Strange.

At the time of the selection. general manager Trent Baalke said that the former Nittany Lion was a culture fit and had a versatile skill set. Then again, it's easy to believe that the Jags drafted him in case they weren't able to reach an agreement with Engram.

Ultimately, Engram got a three-year deal worth $43.5 million and went on to have an impressive season, one in which he hauled in 114 receptions. On the other hand, Strange was underwhelming, registering a measly five receptions for 35 yards with one touchdown. It certainly wasn't the kind of production you want from an early-round pick.

Based on Taylor's comments and Harvey's clip, though, it looks like Strange is working to turn things around.

The Jaguars want more production from Brenton Strange and the 2023 draft class

Even though Evan Engram is still the primary tight end, the Jacksonville Jaguars will surely want more from Brenton Strange. Last year, he would've probably gotten more targets if he had shown more in practice, so it doesn't make sense to use Engram's presence as the reason he was barely targeted.

The good news is that Strange didn't do much of note in the offseason but has made the most of his chances in training camp. His production hasn't popped off of the stat sheet in the preseason but that's mostly because the coaching staff has prioritized other players who may either be vying for a roster spot or looking to move up the depth chart.

Still, it's easy to see Strange getting more playing time in 2024. Maybe he needed time to acclimate to the NFL, and he's now ready to become the player the Jaguars envisioned. Having Evan Engram around certainly had a positive impact on him. And if the sophomore tight end shows progress, he, along with Tank Bigsby and Parker Washington, will make the Jaguars' 2023 draft class look much better.

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