Jacksonville Jaguars: 5 Players that must shine vs. Texans in Week 2
By Larry Brake
5. Jawaan Taylor
Jawaan Taylor is the Jaguars rookie right tackle. He will have the daunting task of blocking J.J. Watt. Taylor must prevent Watt from pressuring and sacking Minshew. He might need help.
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Taylor was drafted in the second round of the past NFL draft. He struggled through training camp with injuries. He made his first professional start against Kansas City.
Physically, Taylor matches up favorably against Watt. Taylor stands 6-5, weighing 312 pounds while Watt stands 6-5, weighing 288 pounds. However, Watt is the wily old veteran rush end that might run circles around Taylor.
Jacksonville might help Taylor by implementing a short passing game. This would allow Minshew to get the ball out quicker from the pocket. Taylor will still have to focus on his assignment.
The injury to Foles came from the right side of the Jaguars offensive line. Taylor needs to realize the importance of playing each play through the whistle. Sometimes taking a holding penalty, to protect Minshew, is worth it.
Taylor must really step up his game and shine in Week 2. He must slow down the relentless pass rush from Watt. This is a major test for the young tackle. Let’s hope that he can hold his own against the Texans.