The preseason gives roster hopefuls the chance to make an impression. That's precisely what Trebor Pena did when the Jacksonville Jaguars welcomed the Carolina Panthers in Week 2. The undrafted receiver took the field until the second half but didn't waste time making the most of his chances, reeling in a team-best four receptions for 72 yards.
This is the second week in a row that Pena has led Jacksonville in both catches and receptions. While he remains a long shot to earn a spot on the initial 53-man roster, the Jaguars suddenly find themselves with a tough decision ahead of cutdown day.
Trebor Pena has stand out for the Jaguars in the preseason
Trebor Pena has seven receptions for 135 yards in two preseason bouts. On top of that, he averaged 19.3 yards per catch in the opener and 18.0 against the Carolina Panthers.
Head coach Liam Coen, for his part, heaped praise on the rookie out of Penn State, noting that he's been ready to take advantage of his opportunities.
Yeah, yeah, proud of Pena again," Coen told reporters after the Panthers game (2:17 mark). "You know, just continues to make plays, being at the right spot at the right time. I think him and Joey have a natural little connection from working together in these settings in practice."
Coen later said that Pena, along with Michael Wortham, said that he's going to make it difficult for the Jaguars, but expects him to make an impact either in Duval or with another team.
Pena is part of a crowded wide receiver corps. Jakobi Meyers, Parker Washington, and Brian Thomas Jr. are locks to make the team. Rookies CJ Williams and Josh Cameron should also get the nod. That's five spots earmarked, but Jacksonville has ample depth at the position beyond them.
Austin Trammell, Tim Jones, and Chandler Brayboy are also dark-horse picks to make the team. However, it's hard to see the Jags carrying six receivers next season because of their needs at other positions. This is why the best bet for all three and Pena would be to land on the practice squad.
Related: Ameer Abdullah just saw his stock soar after the Panthers preseason game
The Jaguars suddenly have a Trebor Pena dilemma
Even after his strong showing in Week 2 of the preseason, Trevor Pena may have trouble making the 53-man roster. Barring an extraordinary performance in the finale, the practice squad may be his best bet. But that's the thing, the Jaguars would be at risk of losing him if they waive him.
Other teams in need of receivers could claim Pena off waivers. That could make them consider the possibility of keeping him around on the 53-man roster. But that decision would come with its own cons, as the team's brass would allocate one less spot to another position.
In the end, Trebor Pena may come up short, but he's made such a strong impression that he's most definitely making things challenging for the Jaguars with cutdown day inching closer.
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