One look at the Jacksonville Jaguars 2017 draft class and fans might see an ebb and flow that isn’t complete.
The selection of Leonard Fournette to improve the running game and tackle Cam Robinson to strengthen the offensive line. Thus, after the first two picks, Jacksonville rode a roller coaster of questions and second-guessing by fans and media alike.
Fournette is the crown jewel of this class. However, after being selected by the 3-13 franchise, executive vice president Tom Coughlin told him this team needs him to score touchdowns. Since the running game has been scarce the past few seasons on the banks of the St. Johns River.
“You have to go back and look at 2015 and as a sophomore in the SEC to rush for 1,930 yards, and the way he runs and that type of thing,” Coughlin said via firstcoastnews.com.
“We need playmakers. We need people to put the ball in the end zone. We need to do something, as it has been said, about balance.”
If Fournette can offer that kind of balance and Robinson can help solve the team’s issues at left tackle, the Jaguars could be a surprise team this coming season.
Here is a look at how Jacksonville Jaguars draft class fared.
Draft picks: LSU RB Leonard Fournette, Alabama T Cam Robinson, Illinois DE Dawuane Smoot, Oklahoma WR Dede Westbrook, Ohio LB Blair Brown, Minnesota CB Jalen Myrick, Miami (Ohio) FB Marquez Williams
Analysis: Like I said, Fournette and Robinson are keys to the offensive success this year. But there are other players who can make this draft class one of the best in the NFL.
The Jags will use Smoot as an outside pass rusher and he could also see time at outside linebacker. Additionally, Westbrook, if he gets past his legal issues, gives this team a speedy receiver to go with the hands already on the roster. He will also help with the return game.
Finally, Marquez Williams should make the team and immediately compete for the starting fullback job.
Grade: I give this team a B- with a chance for improvement. If Westbrook is a steal and Brown plays more during the season, this grade changes for the better.
Looks good. Let see how they do. Coughlin is the turnaround as his no nonsense approach and accountability will trickle throughout the team. No more satisfied with mediocrity and buddy buddy coaching. This will become a focused team.