5 breakout stars to watch for Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020
From one win away from the Super Bowl to a combined 11 victories the past two years, the Jacksonville Jaguars could benefit from some up-and-coming players.
From 10 wins, playoff victories over the Bills and Steelers and a 20-10 fourth-quarter lead in the AFC title game at Foxborough in 2017 to a combined 11 victories the past two seasons and consecutive last-place finishes in the AFC South.
The Jacksonville Jaguars had their first Super Bowl appearance within their grasp a few years ago and seemingly haven’t recovered as they allowed the New England Patriots to rally for that win. Head coach Doug Marrone has taken the share of criticism. Last offseason, they signed Super Bowl LII hero Nick Foles to a big contract and earlier this year, dealt him to the Chicago Bears.
But that doesn’t mean that general manager David Caldwell hasn’t been a bit busy during free agency. And Jacksonville does have two first-round draft choices at their disposal this month thanks to last season’s deal that sent cornerback Jalen Ramsey to the Los Angeles Rams. So when it comes to the current roster, which five players could really step up this season?
5. S Ronnie Harrison
A 2018 third-round pick from the University of Alabama, safety Ronnie Harrison was the second-leading tackler on a Jaguars defense that finished 24th in the league in total defense while only four clubs in the NFL allowed more yards per game on the ground. But it’s worth noting that the latter was an issue for the two-year pro, via his dismal grades from Pro Football Focus (subscription required) when it comes to run defense.
However, Harrison did earn respectable marks when it came to pass coverage and getting after the quarterback. He played and started in 14 games, totaling 70 defensive stops, two sacks, a pair of interceptions and one fumble recovery while finishing second on the team with nine passes defensed.
Look for the 22-year-old performer to take a strong leap forward in his third NFL season.