One of the first things the Jacksonville Jaguars did in their infancy was sign center Dave Widell to stabilize the offensive line. Now, with Tom Coughlin back in town and the Jaguars looking for more offensive line balance, could the team reach out to another veteran for guidance in the transition of management and a new coaching staff? Should this team, that is built on young and developing players, reach out to former New York Jets center Nick Mangold? Would it have the same effect as Widell did and Brad Meester did?
[DavidL]
I proposed the idea of the Jaguars reaching out to former New York Giants defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins to help add depth to the team’s rotation. While the price might be a bit high, Hankins would add depth and a disruptive force on the interior. I also think the team should give serious consideration to signing Mangold to provide continuity. Evidently, I am not the only one who has thought of this possibility.
This may be a bit of a stretch, but Mangold would be a good signing,” writes Michael DiRocco of ESPN.com. “Adding the seven-time Pro Bowler would actually solve the Jaguars’ guard issue, for at least a season or two, anyway. Brandon Linder did a solid job in his first season at center. With Mangold, however, he could move back to right guard and third-year player A.J. Cann could slide over to left guard, which is where he played at South Carolina.”
Injuries played a big role in Mangold’s season last year in New York. Even so, he has been one of the more durable players in the league for the 10 seasons prior to 2016. At 33 years old, he may be worth a one or two year deal. All things considered, he could help head coach Doug Marrone develop a dependable running game. Presumably, with TJ Yeldon and Chris Ivory. The team may look to add RB Leonard Fournette with the fourth pick of the 2017 NFL Draft. As a result, the need for better run blocking will be critical for his development.
[Sean2]
Mangold after his release from the Jets in February that he wants to continue playing. Even if he is not the gifted player he once was, DiRocco said he is still a very smart, tough and poised player.
Ironically, the New York Giants reportedly have interest as well.
Would Coughlin or team general manager David Caldwell pull the trigger on this move? Would a return to this team’s roots assure them of better run blocking and a tougher run game? Even so, Mangold may not be the answer to all the issues on the offensive line. However, adding his experience would undoubtedly be a benefit.