Mac Jones and other early standouts from Jaguars mandatory minicamp

Cooper Hodges is an early standout in Jaguars mandatory minicamp

Versatility is the name of the game for players trying to earn a spot on the 53-man roster. The more you can do, the higher your chances of making the team will be. In the case of Cooper Hodges, the sophomore offensive lineman got reps at center on Day 1 of mandatory minicamp.

With Mitch Morse and Luke Fortner not showing up, the coaching staff is trying different combinations on the interior offensive line. Hodges, who has mostly lined at guard throughout his football career, was one of those players who got the nod.

Hodges missed his rookie season after suffering a patella injury in training camp. He said during Organized Team Activities that he was thrilled to be back on the football field, and it shows. The Appalachian State product will need to keep making an impression in training camp. However, he should feel good about his chances of seizing a spot in the 53-man roster.

Darnell Savage is an early standout in Jaguars mandatory minicamp

Speaking of versatility, the Jaguars got a movable chess piece when they signed former first-round pick Darnell Savage in free agency. Although he's mostly played safety throughout his career, he'll tentatively man the nickel position in 2024. Having said that, the coaching staff will most likely make use of his ability to line at different spots in the defensive backfield and deploy him in different ways.

Savage hadn't seen much action since joining the Jags in March because he was recovering from a rotator cuff injury he suffered late in the 2023 season. However, he was in attendance on Day 1 of mandatory camp and didn't pass up the chance to showcase his talent.

Looking back, signing Savage to a three-year worth $21 million looks like a sound investment.