In a recent press conference following the roster cutdown day, Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Liam Coen provided crucial updates regarding the injury statuses of several key players on the team. As the Jaguars prepare for the upcoming NFL season, these updates are particularly significant for fans and analysts alike.
One of the players Coen addressed was wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who suffered a shoulder injury during the Jaguars' first joint practice against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Fortunately, Thomas Jr. participated in individual drills the following day while wearing a non-contact jersey, indicating a positive step in his recovery.
Coen remarked: "BT was a full-go yesterday (Tuesday), no issues." This statement suggests that Thomas Jr. is on track to return to full participation, which would be a relief for the Jaguars as they look to bolster their receiving corps.
Another player under scrutiny is wide receiver Jakobi Meyers, who experienced a jammed right hand or wrist during a joint practice with the Carolina Panthers. Meyers did not participate in the subsequent joint practices with the Buccaneers, raising concerns about his availability for the season opener.
Coen commented: "They'll be all good. Jakobi should be going today (Wednesday). He went yesterday and was just limited a little bit in terms of catching it." This update is promising, as Meyers is expected to play a vital role in the Jaguars' offensive strategy this season.
Offensive tackle Cole Van Lanen's situation is also noteworthy. After being activated off the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list towards the end of training camp, Van Lanen has been participating in individual periods. When asked about his readiness for Week 1, Coen expressed cautious optimism.
Coen stated: "I don’t know. I think if anybody can do it, it will be those guys because of the way that they attack their rehab, because of the way that they attack their process. I know Cole has looked good. I know he got some confidence. The preseason game the other night, he did one-on-ones against some of the defensive players and he felt really good doing that." Coen emphasized the importance of balancing player readiness with the long-term health of the team, indicating that Van Lanen's status might come down to a game-time decision.
Running back LeQuint Allen also remains sidelined due to a soft tissue injury sustained on August 17. He did not practice for the remainder of training camp, which could impact the Jaguars' depth at the running back position.
Coen noted: "I’d be pleasantly surprised if he’s ready to go. I know that this guy has attacked it. As you guys would probably imagine, just attacked it the right way. I’m sure that both of those guys are probably going to be more like game time, like get up there." Allen's physicality and toughness are missed, and his presence will be crucial as the Jaguars aim for a successful season.
As the Jaguars gear up for their season opener, the health of these key players will be critical to their success. With Coen's updates, fans can remain hopeful that the team will have its strongest lineup possible as they embark on the new NFL season.
Leave a Comment