ESPN 98.1 FM / 850 AM WRUF ESPN 98.1 FM / 850 AM WRUF
Following a disappointing 3-13 season, optimism filled the air as the Jacksonville Jaguars looked to bounce back in 2017. With new additions through the draft and free agency, the Jaguars seemed poised to make a run. Yet, with disappointing quarterback play midway through the preseason, questions still remain as we near the beginning of the regular season.
Quarterback Struggles
Entering his fourth year with the organization, all eyes are set on quarterback Blake Bortles. After a lackluster 2016 season which included just 23 touchdowns and 16 interceptions, the pressure has never been higher for the former third overall draft pick. With two discouraging preseason games already down, time is running out for the 25-year-old.
In his last preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Bortles would complete 8 of 13 passes for 65 yards. He would finish the day with four total drives, each resulting in a punt. While opportunities did arise, Bortles wasn’t able to capitalize – including this under throw to a wide open Allen Robinson.
Blake Bortles, ladies and gentlemen #Jaguars pic.twitter.com/5wBIJItElC
— Cameron DaSilva (@camdasilva) August 18, 2017
Meanwhile, quarterback Chad Henne would step in to complete 6 of 10 passes for 44 yards. Although the numbers may not be staggering, Henne did provide a spark to the first-team offense.
Marrone Comments
With no clear leader in the quarterback race so far, head coach Doug Marrone has stressed that the position is up for grabs. Marrone says that he wants the quarterback that gives his team the best chance to win. With the preseason winding down, both quarterbacks will be receiving heavy reps.
Additional Notes
The Jaguars will host the Carolina Panthers at 7:30 p.m. ET at Everbank Field on Thursday night. Rookie running back Leonard Fournette and wide receiver Marquise Lee headline the list of inactives for the game. Meanwhile, cornerback Jalen Ramsey will return to action on Thursday. Ramsey has missed the first two preseason games while recovering from a core muscle surgery in June.
