Jaguars vs Dolphins: Five players who impressed
The Jaguars might have fallen to 0-3 in the preseason, but preseason wins and losses are truly irrelevant. What is relevant during these games, however, is the flashes of growth and improvement among rising players.
While the Jaguars' offense failed to put together more than one scoring drive and the backup defense was generally shredded by quarterback Josh Rosen, several players stood out in big ways.
Wide receiver Dede Westbrook:
Westbrook has long been a lock to be the Jaguars primary passing target this season. He is able to win in multiple allignments and has the athleticism to stretch defenses horizontally and vertically. He reaffirmed that Thursday when he was the target on 7 of the 10 passes quarterback Nick Foles threw. He didn't post gaudy numbers, but it is clear who the top dog is.
Running back Ryquell Armstead:
Rookie running back Ryquell Armstead didn't post gaudy numbers either. In fact, on the stat sheet he had a poor game. But this was largely because of one run that was for a major loss, a result of Armstead's still improving awareness. But aside from that poor play, he showed a good ability to finish runs and utilize the blocking in front of him. He is battling to be the number two running back behind Leonard Fournette, and he showed more good than bad Thursday.
Edge defender Josh Allen:
This one was going to be obvious. Josh Allen was a force every series he was on the field Thursday, disrupting the Dolphins' offense as a pass rusher, run defender and coverage linebacker. Defensive coordinator threw out some 3-4 looks Thursday, and its fair to assume the addition of Allen is a big reason why.
Offensive tackle Cam Robinson:
Cam Robinson did not play more than a few series, as the Jaguars' announced before the game he would be on a strict snap count. But it was Robinson's first time in a game-type atmosphere since tearing his ACL in week 2 last September. He looked comfortable in the snaps he played, a pivotal step in his recovery.
Defensive lineman Duwuane Smoot:
Third-year defensive lineman Duwuane Smoot has had an impressive training camp and preseason, and he had another good showing against the Dolphins. He was strong in run defense, shedding a block and getting an early TFL early in the game. He was lined up as an inside pass rusher, as well as on the edge, and ended the game with 1 sack and 1 QB hit, displaying an improved ability to get off blocks.
