The Jaguars need Trevor Lawrence but they also need more help than just him.
Thanks to the New York Jets doing what they usually do — namely, the exact opposite of what fans would want — the Jacksonville Jaguars are in a position to secure a franchise quarterback in Trevor Lawrence in the 2021 NFL Draft. Two games now remain before Jacksonville has the opportunity to pick No. 1 overall for the first time ever. With that fortune, however, comes great responsibility.
Just picking Lawrence and automatically expecting greatness would be unethical. Furthermore, a quarterback cannot function if the team around him is not at his level. To be very clear, not every quarterback drafted turns into Peyton Manning, Joe Montana, or even Tom Brady.
Jaguars fans remember the times of Mark Brunell, and his success was largely cultivated by having players such as Jimmy Smith, Keenan McCardell and Natrone Means, meaning the team will need a boost.
The biggest questions are the offensive line. Outside of center Brandon Linder, who ended up on the injured reserve list, and guard Andrew Norwell, there is a discrepancy. Given that Jacksonville is the owner of two first-round picks and high draft picks in the second round, it would be wise to grab someone to protect your franchise quarterback for the long haul.
Finally, the defense. After winning the first game, the defense has disappeared under the Florida sun. But with several young players on IR, their return can only provide a boost and elevate the team. Even still, the defense could use some more pieces as well.
Trevor Lawrence cannot do it by himself, so the Jacksonville Jaguars must step up
In last year’s draft, Jacksonville walked away with core building blocks in players such as C.J. Henderson and Laviska Shenault Jr. However, one draft doesn’t make a championship roster. It does, however, have the potential to be the foundation of a trend of success.
Over the two years before the 2020 NFL Draft, Jacksonville has been fortunate to land pass rusher Josh Allen to complement the defense and wide receiver DJ Chark who can ease Lawrence’s transition. Moreover, if indeed Jacksonville stays where they are, what coach would not say no to the opportunity of working with a franchise quarterback to establish success? Eric Bieniemy, anyone?
The Jacksonville Jaguars received quite a gift around the holidays. Whether or not they return it with shipping and handling will depend on how they fare against Chicago and Indianapolis. For now, they have the gift they want in a franchise quarterback and, upon opening, assembly is required, in the form of talent for the roster.