Maurice Jones-Drew finds motivation from Lisfranc Injury & those who doubt him

Oct 7, 2012; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew (32) runs the ball during the third quarter against the Chicago Bears at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 7, 2012; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew (32) runs the ball during the third quarter against the Chicago Bears at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 7, 2012; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew (32) runs the ball during the third quarter against the Chicago Bears at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 7, 2012; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew (32) runs the ball during the third quarter against the Chicago Bears at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

The Jacksonville Jaguars have decided that running back Maurice Jones-Drew won’t play in Friday’s preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins. Jones-Drew said after Wednesday’s practice that there’s no pain in his surgically-repaired left foot, and that he believes he’s back to normal again. Not only that, but he’s using this setback as motivation to comeback stronger in 2013:

"“I’m always doubted,” Jones-Drew said. “Every year, there’s something. I love it, because it’s funny. People that make these assumptions, they’ve never seen me work out. They’re not in this locker room every day. And they never say they’re wrong.”"

Despite a serious foot injury, Jones-Drew still managed to lead the team with 414 rushing yards last season. His Lisfranc injury wasn’t as severe as the one suffered last season by New York Jets receiver Santonio Holmes, who could miss the first month of the season.

"“It takes about a year to come back if you have a high arch,” said Jones-Drew. “I have no arch.”"

In the three years seasons prior, he averaged over 1,400 yards rushing, and was regarded as one of the two or three best backs in the game.