5 breakout stars to watch for Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020

ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 22: Gardner Minshew II #15 of the Jacksonville Jaguars gestures with the ball during the second half of a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 22, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

2 of 5

Photo by Harry Aaron/Getty Images /

4. C Brandon Linder

In recent seasons, the Jacksonville Jaguars have used some high draft choices to bolster the offensive front. Back in 2017, they used a second-round pick on tackle Cam Robinson from the University of Alabama. This past year, the club once again struck in the second round and added Jawaan Taylor courtesy of the University of Florida.

The former rebounded from an injury-plagued second season and played and started 14 contests this past year. Meanwhile, Taylor was in the opening lineup for all 16 contests as a rookie in 2019. It proved to be a learning experience for the massive blocker (6-foot-5, 312 pounds). Via Pro Football Focus (subscription required), the former Gator played in 1,087 offensive snaps and had his issues in terms of penalties (14) and sacks allowed (eight).

But the focus here is six-year center Brandon Linder, who comes off a year in which he started all 16 games for the first time. When available, he’s done a solid job without a lot of fanfare. The versatile performer began his career at guard and has settled into the pivot. According to PFF, he’s the league’s fifth-best player at his position.

As the Jaguars’ offensive front continues to gel, Linder remains a steady force that could challenge for Pro Bowl honors in 2020.

Home/Jacksonville Jaguars