Jaguars injuries: Ventrell Miller out for the year, DaVon Hamilton back in the team

The Jacksonville Jaguars have suffered a handful of injuries over the last few weeks. Head coach Doug Pederson met with the local media and shared updates on players who will be missing time, including rookie linebacker Ventrell Miller, who's out for the year.

"Ventrell is unfortunately an Achilles. So that's the season ending injury, with the Achilles, he'll be missed," Pederson told the media. He also provided updates on defensive tackle Folorunso Fatukasi, offensive lineman Cooper Hodges and Josh Wells.

"Foley is progressing nicely. I'll anticipate him on the field this week with the group, so looking forward to get him out there. Josh is still nursing the injury and still kind of week-to-week with that... Cooper is not close yet, so he's going to miss some time", Pederson said.

Pederson went on to say he' what role Wells' and Hodges' injuries could play a role in how the the 53-man roster ultimately looks and the team is currently having conversations about it.

A fourth-round pick in this year's draft, Miller had a solid outing against the Miami Dolphins but he was seen in the blue tent during the game. He was later taken to the locker room, indicating that there was something wrong. With the former Gator slated to miss the season, either Shaquille Quarterman and Caleb Johnson have a better chance of making the 53-man roster.

On the other hand, Fatukasi had spent time in a boot. Pederson said earlier this year that he's expecting the veteran defensive tackle to have a bigger impact in his second season in Jacksonville.

In regards to Josh Wells, he was slated to be the top backup at offensive tackle while Cam Robinson serves a four game suspension to start the year. However, the Jaguars will need to probably lean on Blake Hance during Wells' absence.

Last but not least, Hodges had flashed potential in training camp. Known for his tugboat tumble to hype fans up before practice, the rookie offensive lineman could start the season on the Injured Reserve and be activated once he's ready to roll.

Having DaVon Hamilton back in the building is huge for the Jaguars

A couple weeks ago, the news broke that DaVon Hamilton had sustained a non-football injury. At the time, it was uncertain how much he would miss but Doug Pederson said he would be back in the building.

Hamilton is indeed back in the building. Pederson said he hadn't talked to him yet by the time he met with the local media.

"DaVon is in the building now. He's here, as we mentioned last week, he'd be back in the building. I haven't seen him yet but had a message from Ferg (vice president of player health and performance Jeff Ferguson) in the building, so I'm looking forward to seeing him, and I believe his wife is with him, so it will be great to see him," Pederson said.

A third-round pick in the 2020 draft, Hamilton got a three-year deal worth $34 million in April. He was one of the most improved players in training camp and seemed to be poised to have a huge impact next season. Losing him for an extended period of time would be a huge hit. On the other hand, back injuries are tricky and his health will be worth monitoring in the upcoming months.

The Jaguars accounting for injuries when putting together the 53-man roster

Injuries are an inherent part of the sport and teams can do much but to be ready when they take place. In this case, Miller's Achilles tear will have an impact on the 53-man roster. How many linebackers will the Jags carry in 2023? How's got a better chance of making the cut, Quarterman or Johnson? Similarly, Well's injury will test the depth at offensive tackle.

Having said that, all teams have to deal with injuries, and those who are better equipped to handle them have a better chance of winning games. It's true that some players have a bigger impact than others, but there's a reason rosters have 53-man slots. If one player goes down, one next to step up and someone will need to do it in light of injuries to Miller and Wells.

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