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The Jacksonville Jaguars entered camp with a new head coach, high expectations, and a reworked roster. By the end of July, we’d seen early flashes of promise, injury setbacks, and some notable standouts. From quarterback chemistry to cornerback battles, here’s what stood out during the first full month of Jaguars training camp.
Trevor Lawrence Looks Improved But His Top WR Connection Needs Work
GettyTrevor Lawrence and Brian Thomas Jr. Connection Growing Slowly But Surely
Trevor Lawrence has opened camp playing cleaner football. Through seven practices, he’s thrown just one interception, a big contrast from three picks in his first two practices last summer.
Lawrence’s offseason footwork adjustments, including a tweaked shotgun stance, appear to be paying off. Head coach Liam Coen noted the improvement, especially in rhythm and red zone efficiency.
But the connection with second year receiver Brian Thomas Jr. remains a work in progress. Thomas and Lawrence connected on just two of five targets in a recent session, with one drop. Still, Thomas remains confident. “We’re still continuing to grow our relationship,” he said. “Each and every day we’re putting in that work.”
Meanwhile, Parker Washington has quietly made a push for a bigger role. After hauling in touchdowns from Lawrence in both 7 on 7 and 11 on 11, the third year receiver could carve out the WR3 role (especially if Travis Hunter spends more time on defense).
A Defense Taking Shape: Hunter’s Two Way Impact, Hines Allen’s Edge & Opportunity at CB
GettyTravis Hunters’ Role Continues to Grow
No Jaguars player has generated more camp buzz than Travis Hunter. The No. 2 overall pick has split time between receiver and corner, and has already made an impact on both sides.
After beginning camp on offense, Hunter flipped to defense and broke up multiple passes in two days, including a red zone denial on the final play of practice. He’s stayed tight in coverage, flown across the field in man situations, and shown the elite instincts that made him a top pick.
However, managing his workload remains key. Hunter’s role will affect others including Parker Washington on offense and cornerback Jarrian Jones on defense.
Jones, primarily a nickel as a rookie, has benefited from Montaric Brown’s injury and Hunter’s limited defensive reps. He ripped a ball away from Thomas in 1 on 1s and continues to impress coaches with technique and effort. He’s quietly moved up the cornerback depth chart.
The secondary as a whole has had strong moments. Jourdan Lewis has been steady since signing in March. S Antonio Johnson and CB Doneiko Slaughter each had interceptions, while Darnell Savage and Chad Muma made key pass breakups.
Up front, edge rusher Josh Hines Allen is setting the tone. He forced a fumble in 11 on 11, deflected passes, and led by example. Just 2.5 sacks shy of the franchise’s all time record, Hines Allen has even loftier goals. “I want to break the [NFL] sack record,” he said. “All pass rushers should strive for that.”
Elsewhere, Travon Walker continues to evolve. The former No. 1 pick has grown more refined as a pass rusher and recently batted down a Lawrence throw in team drills. The coaching staff is optimistic that his ceiling is still ahead.
July gave us an early snapshot of a team still building, but with high potential. Lawrence looks more composed. The defense has playmakers. And as long as the Jaguars can stay healthy and accelerate the chemistry between QB1 and WR1, they’ll be in a very strong position entering the preseason.
Garrett Klaus Garrett Klaus is a NFL writer covering the Colts, Falcons, Jags and Panthers for Heavy.com. He recently started writing for Heavy and has also written articles for Football Analysis as well as writing NFL YouTube scripts for the channels BLITZ and SheGotSports.
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