Jacksonville Jaguars: Once again, the receiving corps is deep
By Larry Brake
The Jacksonville Jaguars have healthy wide receivers and quality depth once more heading into the 2018 season.
Wide receiver depth was a problem for the Jacksonville Jaguars due to all the injuries, last season. Allen Robinson’s injury ended his season in Week 1. Allen Hurns and Marqise Lee battled through injuries all season long.
Those injuries paved the way for Keelan Cole and Dede Westbrook. Both rookies improved throughout the season. Lee re-signed with Jacksonville, but both Allens are elsewhere.
Donte Moncrief signed a one-year deal in March. D.J. Chark came in the NFL Draft. Allen Lazard signed as an undrafted rookie. This receiving corps might be the Jaguars’ finest group.
Since training camp will start soon, competition for playing time will heat up. The good thing is, everyone is working hard and not assuming anything. John Reid of jacksonville.com briefly described Cole’s work ethic:
"Throughout the offseason, Jaguars second-year wide receiver Keelan Cole has been working like he needs to earn a roster spot instead of being a lock."
Because of the depth in receivers, each player will have to perform at a high level. The rookies, Chark and Lazard, will definitely push the veterans. This will make the Jaguars much better in the passing attack.
As a result, the starting receivers will be Moncrief and Lee. The battle for the slot receiver will be between Cole and Lee. How do you keep Westbrook off the field? Blake Bortles must feel like a kid in a candy store.
Currently, Jacksonville has 11 wide receivers on their roster. It might be easier determining who gets cut instead of figuring the starters. Five will battle for final roster/practice squad spots.
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Rashad Greene, Jaydon Mickens, and Shane Wynn will have to be special team players to make the roster. Dorren Miller and Montay Crockett could be released or practice squad guys. Isn’t it better for guys to be fighting for playing time than just penciling in the names?
There are high expectations for the Jaguars this season. The receiving corps will pay an important role in the offense. Most of all, there are several guys to contribute instead of just one.