Jacksonville Jaguars: Tom Couglin says Blake Bortles is improving
By Larry Brake
Tom Coughlin appears to sold on the notion of Blake Bortles being the Jacksonville Jaguars’ starting quarterback.
Adding Tom Coughlin to the Jacksonville Jaguars front office was a stroke of genius. Since Coughlin is a two-time Super Bowl winning coach, he is able to evaluate talent at a very high level. Many people have wondered what his true feelings and thoughts are concerning Blake Bortles.
After all, Coughlin had Eli Manning as his quarterback in both Super Bowl victories. Manning would be a tough act to follow in the eyes of Coughlin. Even Jaguars legend, Mark Brunell, is a high standard for Bortles to achieve.
Coughlin had sharp and direct words for Bortles in February 2017. Michael DiRocco of ESPN.com reported Coughlins comments:
"“There’s plenty of work for everybody to do, Blake included,” Coughlin said during a Friday news conference before the NFL scouting combine. “To raise the game to a higher level, … taking care of the football, which is paramount to that position.”"
Bortles has had the propensity to throw the ball to the wrong jersey. Mostly, when he forced the ball or in a panic due to pressure. Bortles’ pick-sixes were the headlines throughout the 2016 season.
In 2017, Bortles threw a career low 13 interceptions. First of all, his offensive line protected him better. Remember, Bortles did not throw a pick in the three playoff games last season.
Since the Jaguars signed a top lineman in free agency, Bortles should have more time in the pocket. Andrew Norwell and Cam Robinson will definitely guard his blind side. What does Coughlin have to say about Bortles and his play?
In Orlando, Florida at the owner’s meetings, Ryan O’Halloran of Jacksonville.com records Coughlins comments:
"“He’s getting better,” Coughlin said. “That’s the whole key. Some of his best games were in the playoffs. … He’s a young player and he’s played a lot of football. He’s making progress in his game and we look forward to the continuance of that.”"
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Coughlin seems to be giving his blessing to Bortles. Jacksonville gave him a contract extension and have signed more weapons on offense. Let’s hope Bortles builds off last season. Bringing the Lombardi Trophy to Jacksonville would silence his critics. Go Blake Go!