The 2017 Jacksonville Jaguars roster was a team that showed significant improvement from the previous year, culminating in an appearance in the AFC Championship game. The roster was built around a strong defense, which ranked second in the league in total yards allowed per game. Here’s a breakdown of the key players on the 2017 Jacksonville Jaguars roster:
Offense
Quarterbacks:
- Blake Bortles: The primary starter, known for his ability to extend plays with his feet.
- Chad Henne: Veteran backup who provided a different skill set.
- Brandon Allen: Young quarterback who saw limited action.
Running Backs:
- Leonard Fournette: Rookie running back who was a key addition, bringing a powerful running style.
- Chris Ivory: Veteran running back who complemented Fournette with his experience.
- T.J. Yeldon: Provided depth and was used in various roles, including as a receiver out of the backfield.
- Corey Grant: Special teams contributor who also had some carries.
Wide Receivers:
- Allen Hurns: Started the season strong but faced injuries, impacting his overall production.
- Marqise Lee: Led the team in receptions, proving to be a reliable target.
- Allen Robinson: Despite a slow start due to injury, he was a significant threat when healthy.
- Dede Westbrook: Rookie who made an impact late in the season.
- Keelan Cole: Undrafted rookie who surprised with his performance, including several big plays.
Tight Ends:
- Marcedes Lewis: Veteran tight end who contributed in both the passing and running game.
- Ben Koyack: Backup tight end who saw action in various packages.
- James O’Shaughnessy: Played a role, especially after injuries to other tight ends.
Offensive Line:
- Cam Robinson (LT): Rookie left tackle who started immediately.
- Patrick Omameh (LG): Veteran presence at left guard.
- Brandon Linder ©: Center who was a key component when healthy.
- A.J. Cann (RG): Started at right guard, providing consistency.
- Jermey Parnell (RT): Right tackle who brought experience to the line.
Defense
Defensive Line:
- Calais Campbell (DE): Major free agent signing who made a huge impact.
- Malik Jackson (DT): Provided interior rush and helped stop the run.
- Marcell Dareus (DT): Acquired mid-season, adding depth and talent.
- Yannick Ngakoue (DE): Finished with 12 sacks, emerging as a pass rush threat.
- Dante Fowler Jr. (DE): Contributed as a situational pass rusher.
Linebackers:
- Telvin Smith (LB): Played a crucial role in pass coverage and stopping the run.
- Paul Posluszny (LB): Veteran who led the team in tackles, providing leadership.
- Myles Jack (LB): Played both inside and outside, showing versatility.
- Blair Brown (LB): Rookie who contributed on special teams and in backup roles.
Secondary:
- Jalen Ramsey (CB): Second-year cornerback who became one of the league’s best.
- A.J. Bouye (CB): Free agent signing who paired with Ramsey to form a strong duo.
- Tashaun Gipson (S): Started at free safety, known for his ball-hawking skills.
- Barry Church (S): Strong safety who contributed in the box and in coverage.
- Aaron Colvin (CB): Nickel corner who played extensively in subpackages.
Special Teams
- Kicker:
- Josh Lambo: Took over kicking duties and provided stability.
- Punter:
- Brad Nortman: Handled punting duties, aiming to pin opponents deep.
- Return Specialists:
- Corey Grant: Handled kick returns.
- Jaydon Mickens: Took over punt return duties later in the season.
The 2017 Jacksonville Jaguars roster had a defining characteristic - a stout defense that could rush the quarterback and shut down opponents’ running games. The team’s ability to win close games and make a deep playoff run was largely due to the efforts of this roster. Despite some inconsistencies on offense, the Jaguars were able to rely on their defense to carry them through many games, ultimately falling just short of a Super Bowl appearance.
FAQ Section
What was the strength of the 2017 Jacksonville Jaguars?
+The 2017 Jacksonville Jaguars’ strength was their defense, which ranked among the best in the league. They had a potent pass rush and were effective against the run, making them a formidable opponent for most teams.
Who were the key players on the Jaguars’ offense in 2017?
+The key players on the Jaguars’ offense included quarterback Blake Bortles, running back Leonard Fournette, and wide receivers Marqise Lee and Allen Hurns. These players were crucial in the team’s ability to move the ball and score points.
How did the Jaguars perform in the 2017 playoffs?
+The Jaguars had a successful playoff run in 2017, defeating the Buffalo Bills in the Wild Card round and the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Divisional round before losing to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship game.
What impact did the defense have on the Jaguars’ season?
+The defense was the backbone of the Jaguars’ success in 2017. With players like Calais Campbell, Jalen Ramsey, and Telvin Smith, the team was able to control games on that side of the ball, often dictating the outcome through their defensive efforts.
How did the Jaguars’ special teams contribute to their overall performance?
+While not always flashy, the Jaguars’ special teams unit provided consistency and avoided major mistakes for the most part. Josh Lambo’s stability at kicker was particularly noteworthy, as he helped secure wins with his accuracy.
