Ultimate Jaguars Newsroom: It's showtime
excerpt:
MIAMI - The Jaguars, coming off an 8-8 season, play their preseason opener tonight at Dolphin Stadium. Coach Jack Del Rio thinks this year's team, coming off an offseason makeover and the return of several injured players, can be the AFC's version of the New Orleans Saints this year. This is their first chance to show they have the makings of a playoff team.
When: 7:30 p.m. -- Where: Dolphin Stadium, Miami -- TV: WTEV TV-47
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Byron Leftwich - QUARTERBACK
Leftwich (left) is at a crossroads in his fifth year as he prepares to throw his first pass since Oct. 22. He'll likely get only 12 to 15 snaps, but hopes to show he's a perfect fit for the team's new quarterback-friendly offense.
Reggie Williams - WIDE RECEIVER
The 2004 first-round draft pick has been relegated to third team and has been working at fielding punts on the scout team. He is in danger of being cut if he doesn't light it up.
Reggie Hayward - DEFENSIVE END
He is coming off a torn Achilles tendon suffered in the season opener last season and has to show he hasn't lost that first step that made him a dominant pass rusher before he was injured.
Marcus Stroud - DEFENSIVE TACKLE
He is a three-time Pro Bowl pick, but has been plagued with ankle injuries and is coming off microfracture surgery during the offseason. Has he regained the quickness that made him so effective?
ROOKIES TO WATCH
Reggie Nelson - FREE SAFETY
Nelson (right) was handed the starting free safety job the day he was drafted. He has the talent to handle the job, but has to develop the savvy that was the trademark of the departed Deon Grant.
Adam Podlesh - PUNTER
The fourth-round pick was handed the punting job when Chris Hanson was released shortly after the draft. He struggled in the team's scrimmage last week.
Mike Walker - WIDE RECEIVER
The third-round pick has the potential to be the team's receiver of the future, but is battling a tender ankle and dislocated finger. This will be his first chance to flash his play-making ability.
It's showtime
It's showtime
Linear Mode
