NFL preseason 2015: Players with most to prove

Dec 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) reacts after an incomplete pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Jets 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 29, 2013; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars tackle Luke Joeckel (76) in the first quarter of their game against the Indianapolis Colts at EverBank Field. The Indianapolis Colts beat the Jacksonville Jaguars 37-3. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports /

Jacksonville Jaguars – Luke Joeckel

Why is he the pick?

The Jaguars have been terrible for almost 10 consecutive years at this point, mostly because they constantly miss on first-round picks in the top 10. In 2013, Jacksonville picked second and selected Joeckel out of Texas A&M University, only to watch him go down with a broken right ankle after only five games as a rookie. Joeckel was able to return healthy in 2014, playing all 16 games.

Unfortunately, Joeckel did not play well on the left side. Jacksonville allowed a league-high 71 sacks, with him earning his share of the blame. According to Pro Football Focus, Joeckel came in 67th out of 84 tackles, actually finishing third on his own team at the position. If Blake Bortles is going to have any chance to succeed, he needs his left tackle.

What is at stake?

Jacksonville having any hope of getting better. The defense does not look much improved after Dante Fowler Jr. went down with a torn ACL in his first practice. That said, the offense could improve dramatically. Jacksonville went out and signed tight end Julius Thomas to a five-year deal before inking center Stefen Wisniewski to a one-year pact. With Bortles getting his first training camp with starter reps, he should also be much better. If Joeckel can protect him, this offense has a shot.

Next: Tennessee Titans

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