How Cam Robinson's Return Has Set Tone For Jaguars' Offense

The veteran offensive tackle has had a strong return from his four-game suspension.

Build the trenches!

The Jaguars’ offensive line has been hit with both suspensions and injuries in the early half of the season. Cam Robinson faced a four-game suspension, while Walker Little and Brandon Scherff have battled injuries in recent weeks.

Little, the week one starter at left tackle, made quite the case for himself to remain the starting blindside protector for Trevor Lawrence. However, Pederson remained steadfast that it would be Robinson’s job when he returned.

Since his arrival in week five against the Buffalo Bills, Robinson’s impact has been paramount to the team’s success since his return. The longtime left tackle is currently Pro Football Focus’ second highest graded pass-blocker, not just at tackle but at any position.

In his four games back from suspension, Robinson has allowed just five pressures on 162 pass-block snaps. The improvement of the offensive line has certainly been evident when watching the games as well. On Thursday night against the Saints, Trevor Lawrence was not hit once, aside from his rushing attempts.

It isn’t just Robinson’s level of play that has been so pivotal to their recent win streak, it’s his leadership as well. Robinson was recently mic'd up against the Pittsburgh Steelers. It was evident just how much he means to the offense, leading the pre-game rituals with his empowering presence and attitude.

There’s no doubt that Lawrence is among the league’s best when it comes to getting the ball out of his hand. This season, Lawrence’s average time to throw sits at just 2.48 seconds, fourth fastest in football. Regardless, the line’s improvement has not gone unnoticed.

As a unit, the offensive line has allowed just 64 pressures, fifth fewest in the league. Even so, Jaguars’ general manager Trent Baalke saw the opportunity to improve their depth, especially with their recent injuries. Baalke went out and snagged offensive guard Ezra Cleveland from Minnesota for a sixth-round pick.

With the San Francisco 49ers coming up to bat next against the Jaguars, Jacksonville should have their best five linemen healthy and hungry. Little is expected to return from injury and slot into the starting left guard spot Sunday.

"I want to be as clear as I can, Walker is the left guard," said Pederson.

The 49ers made a trade deadline deal of their own, adding star pass-rusher Chase Young. Young is having a terrific season, reminding all why he was a top-3 selection. He will join, what might be, the best defensive line in football, featuring Nick Bosa, Arik Armstead, Javon Hargrave, and Randy Gregory.

The Jacksonville offensive front will have their hands full, but it looks as though the Jaguars will have their best five out to handle it. The line will look to the veteran Robinson to set the tone for both them and the rest of the offense.