Jaguars Roster 2017: Full Player Breakdown

The 2017 NFL season was a pivotal year for the Jacksonville Jaguars, marked by significant roster changes and a renewed sense of optimism. As the team sought to reclaim its status as a competitive force in the AFC South, the front office made several key moves to bolster the squad. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the Jaguars’ 2017 roster, featuring a detailed analysis of each position group and the players who helped shape the team’s fortunes.

Offense

The Jaguars’ offense in 2017 was a mixed bag, showing flashes of brilliance but ultimately struggling with consistency. The team’s quarterback situation was a major point of discussion, with Blake Bortles leading the charge. Despite his inconsistent play, Bortles brought a unique blend of athleticism and arm talent to the table, making him a fascinating study in contrasts.

Quarterbacks

• Blake Bortles: The incumbent starter, Bortles was known for his ability to extend plays with his feet and make throws down the field. However, his accuracy and decision-making were often called into question.
• Chad Henne: Serving as the primary backup, Henne brought a veteran presence to the position. His ability to manage the game and limit turnovers made him a reliable option in relief situations.
• Brandon Allen: A young quarterback with a strong arm, Allen was still developing his skills and learning the nuances of the NFL game.

Running Backs

The Jaguars boasted one of the most formidable running back duos in the league, with Leonard Fournette and Chris Ivory forming a potent one-two punch. - Leonard Fournette: The rookie sensation out of LSU, Fournette was a force to be reckoned with, combining size, speed, and power to dominate defenses. - Chris Ivory: A veteran presence in the backfield, Ivory brought a physical running style and pass-blocking prowess to the table. - T.J. Yeldon: A versatile back with excellent receiving skills, Yeldon provided a change-of-pace option for the Jaguars’ offense. - Corey Grant: Known for his explosive speed, Grant was a threat in space and a valuable contributor on special teams.

Wide Receivers

The Jaguars’ receiving corps was a diverse group, featuring a mix of veteran leaders and young playmakers. - Allen Hurns: A consistent producer, Hurns was known for his reliable hands and route-running skills. - Marqise Lee: A dynamic athlete with a strong work ethic, Lee was a favorite target for Bortles, particularly in the slot. - Allen Robinson: Although injured for much of the season, Robinson was a vital component of the offense when healthy, offering a unique blend of size and speed. - Dede Westbrook: A rookie out of Oklahoma, Westbrook flashed his explosive potential, showcasing a knack for making big plays down the field. - Arrelious Benn: A veteran with a strong understanding of the game, Benn contributed on special teams and in niche roles on offense.

Tight Ends

The Jaguars’ tight end position was a source of strength, with a trio of players offering a range of skills. - Marcedes Lewis: A stalwart veteran, Lewis was a trusted target for Bortles, particularly in the red zone. - Ben Koyack: A young tight end with athleticism, Koyack was developing his blocking skills while showing promise as a receiver. - James O’Shaughnessy: Acquired via trade, O’Shaughnessy brought a pass-catching dimension to the tight end group.

Offensive Line

The Jaguars invested heavily in their offensive line, seeking to protect Bortles and clear lanes for Fournette. - Branden Albert: A veteran left tackle, Albert was expected to anchor the line, though injuries limited his impact. - Patrick Omameh: Starting at left guard, Omameh provided a physical presence, though his play was marked by inconsistency. - Brandon Linder: The center, Linder was a bright spot, offering stability and leadership upfront. - A.J. Cann: At right guard, Cann brought athleticism and a strong work ethic, though he faced challenges in pass protection. - Jermey Parnell: The right tackle, Parnell was a steady presence, known for his technique and veteran savvy.

Defense

The 2017 Jaguars defense was a top-five unit, driven by a ferocious pass rush and stifling secondary play. This group was the backbone of the team, often making game-changing plays to secure victories.

Defensive Line

The defensive line was the heartbeat of the Jaguars’ defense, featuring a deep and talented rotation. - Calais Campbell: A premier defensive end, Campbell brought power, speed, and veteran leadership to the edge. - Malik Jackson: A versatile defensive tackle, Jackson offered interior pass rush and run-stopping ability. - Marcell Dareus: Acquired mid-season, Dareus added depth and athleticism to the defensive tackle position. - Abry Jones: A reliable rotational player, Jones contributed against the run and in passing situations. - Dante Fowler Jr.: A dynamic edge rusher, Fowler was a key component of the Jaguars’ pass rush, offering speed and agility off the edge. - Yannick Ngakoue: A second-year defensive end, Ngakoue was a breakout star, combining quickness and technique to harass quarterbacks.

Linebackers

The linebacker corps was a strength, with a mix of veteran experience and youthful exuberance. - Telvin Smith: The leader of the group, Smith was an elite linebacker, offering speed, instincts, and tackling prowess. - Paul Posluszny: A veteran presence, Posluszny brought stability and knowledge of the game, though his play time was managed due to injuries. - Myles Jack: A second-year player, Jack was a versatile athlete who could play both inside and outside, offering coverage skills and blitz ability. - Dan Skuta: A veteran who contributed on special teams and in defensive packages.

Defensive Backs

The secondary was arguably the best in the NFL, with a depth of talent that allowed the Jaguars to be aggressive upfront. - Jalen Ramsey: A shutdown corner, Ramsey was a physical, athletic defender who could match up with any receiver. - A.J. Bouye: A free agent acquisition, Bouye brought a veteran presence and ball skills to the cornerback position. - Barry Church: A safety with excellent instincts, Church was a reliable last line of defense and a sure tackler. - Tashaun Gipson: Acquired to start alongside Church, Gipson offered range and ball-hawking ability, though his season was marred by injuries. - Aaron Colvin: A nickel corner, Colvin was excellent in coverage, providing a boost to the Jaguars’ sub-packages.

Special Teams

Special teams played a critical role in the Jaguars’ 2017 campaign, with several units making significant contributions. - Josh Lambo: The kicker, Lambo was consistent and clutch, making several game-winning field goals. - Brad Nortman: The punter, Nortman was solid, providing hang time and distance to flip field position. - Corey Grant: A key contributor on kick returns, Grant’s speed made him a threat to take it to the house every time he touched the ball. - Jaydon Mickens: A rookie who emerged as a punt return specialist, Mickens showed flashes of brilliance, including a game-changing return touchdown.

Conclusion

The 2017 Jacksonville Jaguars were a team on the rise, led by a stingy defense and an offense that showed glimpses of brilliance. While the season ultimately ended in disappointment, with a loss in the AFC Championship game, the foundation laid in 2017 set the stage for future success. The roster, as constructed, was a testament to the front office’s commitment to building a competitive team, with a blend of veteran leadership and young talent that would serve as the cornerstone of the franchise for years to come.