Category: Uncategorized

O-Zone: Perfect fit

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

Steve from Hudson, FL:
Does elimination of the first roster cut make it more difficult for our personnel department to make decisions on filling the roster with depth positions? It seems like there will be a lot of players available all on the same day.

John: I’m getting many questions about the NFL’s elimination of the first roster cut-down date, and it seems there’s a whole lot of overthinking happening here. The NFL this week voted to have just one preseason roster cut-down date rather than two, eliminating the post-Preseason Week 3 cut to 75 players. People seem to be trying to figure a negative to this, and I’m just not seeing one. Starters and front-line players are held out of that game far more often than not. Because of that, teams sometimes had a tricky time with roster management for the final preseason game. Having 90 players rather than 75 should make that easier for teams. It benefits players all around because players who are assured of roster spots won’t have to play in Preseason Week 4 and 15 more marginal players now will get an extra week to impress a team around the league. It won’t make it more difficult for personnel people. If actually will make it easier because they will get a more extensive look at some players they otherwise might not have had a chance to evaluate.

John from Jacksonville:
I hope Abry gets everything he wants … here’s one for Abry Jones and I hope we remember his play for a very long time!

John: Hey … one fer Abry!

Marc from Jacksonville:
Regarding the run game and its impact on the tight-end position, I kind of feel we may not actually see lots of two tight-end sets with the addition of a dedicated fullback. I guess it depends on how often they use the fullback. Otherwise, you are flirting with keeping a high number of talented receivers on the sideline a bit too often. Gotta keep those defenses honest, right?

John: I don’t believe the Jaguars will be in two tight-end sets anywhere near all of the time next season, but I think you’ll see a good mix of three-wide, two-tight and fullback-oriented formations. I think it will be pretty balanced, but I think two tights will be on the field for the Jaguars a pretty good percentage of the time if the offense is working efficiently.

Otto from Ponte Vedra Beach, FL:
John, I was very enthused when we were able to get Myles Jack last year. I was also saddened to see his lack of use. He was magnificent at times, and I feel good about him playing middle linebacker. I hope he plays more with instinct rather than thinking too much. He and Jalen Ramsey have a chance to be outstanding. Yes, we all want it to work. What are your feelings on Jack’s future?

John: I think Myles Jack has all of the talent to have a very bright future, and he absolutely last season showed flashes of the potential that had many analysts believing he would be a Top 5 selection in the 2016 NFL Draft. All reports are that he is adapting well to the move to the middle, and there’s no reason physically he won’t excel there. The question for Jack this season is how quickly he can adapt to the mental demands of playing middle linebacker in the NFL. I think it would have been very difficult if not impossible for him to do last season as a rookie, particularly considering he had to miss organized team activities because UCLA hadn’t completed spring classes. Because Jack seems like a bright, motivated player, I have no reason to think he won’t do very well in the middle in time.

John from Cape May, NJ:
Do you think the Jaguars will allow Dante Fowler Jr. to move around the defense this season? I asked this question last season and you replied (I’m paraphrasing), “Let him learn one position first.” So, do you think it’s time to experiment with him in different positions along the defensive front? His strengths at Florida were that he was a movable chess piece that came from all different angles, so why not embrace those traits? Otherwise, what was the point in picking him if you’re not going to play to his strengths?

John: I did reply “let him learn one position first” about Fowler last season. My reply this season: “Let him play one position at a high level” first before moving him all around the defense. Fowler indeed was a dominant player at Florida because he was a movable chess piece, and he also was dominant because he could overpower, out-athlete and outrun opponents. That’s far harder to do in the NFL than in the SEC. Fowler’s task now is to turn ability into production, and that’s a huge storyline for this team this season. I think the Jaguars will move Fowler around some, but I’d be surprised if they do it extensively until he solidifies himself a bit more in one position.

Rhonda from Jacksonville:
Here’s one for bringing back the prison leagues. Take the skirts off quarterbacks, have real practices and put violence back in the game. Might put the NFL out of business.

John: Hey, one fer the … wait … what?

Logan from Wichita, KS:
This is why Doug Marrone is heads and tails above Gus. Gus was always “gumdrops and ice cream; mistakes are a good thing. Everyone gets a trophy.” Doug Marrone knows you don’t get diddly until you earn it. No pat on the back: “Awww, poor you … it’s just a bad day” anymore. Doug Marrone will let players know when they let up that it’s not OK. I LOVE IT! Tough love is the best love. Dr. Feelgood!

John: Marrone’s approach is much different than Gus Bradley’s – both in how he approaches players and in how expresses his thoughts to the media. I, too, like Marrone’s candor and think it’s fine for a coach to express to the media if he’s unhappy about something. Marrone will be the first to tell you that how speaks with the media doesn’t really have all that much to do with what happens on the field, and he’ll be the first to tell you that none of it means diddly if the Jaguars don’t win. But sure … one fer candor.

Mike from Atlanta, GA:
You spent years covering Peyton Manning with the Colts. What is your assessment of Blake Bortles? Does he have deficits that are insurmountable? Can he be a franchise quarterback? I feel like he has the physical tools. He is big, he can move, his arm strength is good enough, and he doesn’t appear to be shell-shocked by the amount of pass rush/pressure he has dealt with. I think his accuracy problems stem from mechanics and some turnovers can be attributed to this. Some turnovers are a result of bad decision-making.

John: My years covering Manning with the Colts don’t really apply to Bortles, just as I don’t think years covering Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Drew Brees and quarterbacks in that class apply to covering quarterbacks outside the Rushmore Debate. This is not meant as a criticism of Bortles because the great majority of quarterbacks to play the game aren’t in the Rushmore Debate. You ask, “Can he be a franchise quarterback?” I answer now as I have answered often before: I have my doubts. He indeed has all the attributes you cite – big, good arm, gutsy in the pockets, etc. – and he has had a lot of adversity to overcome. I’m not as concerned over the Accuracy Crisis as many observers, either. It’s difficult to succeed without pinpoint accuracy, but it can be done; the Jaguars indeed had times in 2015 when they moved effectively, and Bortles wasn’t particularly accurate that season. The concern I have with Bortles now is the same as the last two-plus seasons – decision-making, pocket awareness reading defenses. His struggles in those areas too often have led to long stretches of offensive inefficiency and critical, avoidable turnovers at key times. Can he improve in those areas? I honestly don’t know, but I do believe his ability to do so will determine his future.

Jody from St. Augustine, FL:
John, a question yesterday about Poz got me thinking about his future role with the team. I know the move was made to maximize Myles Jack’s opportunities and his athleticism, but do you think a possible side effect of having Poz play less snaps is he gets an extra year or two of high level play? I would Love to see him finish his career as a Jag, Do you think this move makes that more likely?

John: Yes.

Cliff from Jags4life:
Have you ever argued loudly with your wife at 4 a.m. and woke the neighborhood?

John: My wife and I don’t argue. We have a perfectly healthy relationship based on her pointing out my flaws and me acknowledging her accuracy.

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O-Zone: Worse and worse

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

Tommy from Fernandina Beach, FL:
Big O … from the limited video from OTAs, it looks as though Blake Bortles is throwing a tighter spiral. Do you see that?

John: Friday was the first day of Jaguars 2017 organized team activities in which the media was allowed to observe the entire practice. It therefore was the first time this offseason those who cover the team could watch Blake Bortles’ motion in extended work. I thought it looked …. Good. Not great. Not awful. OK – and yes, better than last year. He had some really accurate passes Friday, and he had other passes that would have drawn a lot of concern had they been viewed by the public. I thought overall Bortles threw well enough Friday – with a tight enough spiral – to be effective in games. That he wasn’t dazzlingly spectacular doesn’t concern me because I don’t think Bortles ever will be a pinpoint, precision, timing passer who dazzles the eye in practice. I don’t see him reeling off 15 consecutive completions in games very often and I don’t seem being a quarterback that “makes it look easy.” I believe he’s going to need to be more accurate more consistently than he was last season, and I believe he needs to get back to being able to make big plays the way he did in 2015. I believe most of all he needs to dramatically reduce interceptions and lost fumbles. I also believe the way he threw Friday was good enough to do all of those things – and I believe the way he threw Friday was good enough for him to play well next season.

Luis from El Paso, TX:
Should Dante Fowler Jr. should move to strong-side linebacker in your opinion?

John: No. While many seem to have given up on Dante Fowler Jr. as a pass rusher who can disrupt off the edge from the end position, I don’t think it’s time for that yet.

Tom from Charleston, SC:
You say that keeping the 90-man roster until the final cut is a positive. You have also said that giving players snaps that obviously aren’t going to contribute takes valuable snaps away from starters or second teamers that are going to contribute – i.e., your reasoning for Brandon Allen getting so few reps in training camp) Doesn’t this new rule take away from those “may make the team” in favor of those that “won’t make the team?”

John: The new rule that keeps 90 players on the roster for an additional week applies only to the preseason finale. Many players who are going to contribute or start in the regular season won’t be playing that week anyway – and regular-season contributors or starters who play in the preseason finale usually don’t play past halftime. This rule is a way to have enough players to play the preseason finale and not risk injuries to players teams plan on contributing. It also gives marginal players one more week to try to impress their current team or potential future teams. That’s what it is. There’s no need to overthink it.

Glen from Orange Park, FL:
In your opinion, what will it take to get Branden Albert to report? I don’t think wanting some guaranteed money from your new team is unreasonable and would love to see this resolved in a positive way, even if that means the Jags’ front office giving in a little.

John: I think Albert probably will report when it’s mandatory he do so. Until then, I don’t see it as a crisis.

Steve from Jacksonville:
With Myles Jack moving to middle linebacker, is he going to be making the calls on defense or will they ease him into that and have Poz make the calls this year?

John: Myles Jack will make the calls from the middle this season.

Dylan from Tulsa, OK:
Do you see Jalen Myrick making an impact as a rookie?

John: On special teams, yes. As far as making an impact on defense, much could depend on injuries in front of him.

J. Hooks from Orange Park, FL:
Dang, Hurnsey looks like he put on some “man pounds.” It’s amazing how young they look when they join the team versus. A couple of years in the pros!

John: Indeed. The biggest difference that many casual observers miss about the NFL is the remarkable physical difference between first- and second-year players and players in their fifth, sixth and seven seasons. It’s indeed the difference between youth and grown men. It’s particularly notable at times on the offensive and defensive lines – and it’s also what can make it difficult for young teams to be on a level with older ones. This is not to say this is why the Jaguars have struggled in recent seasons, because there are far more reasons. But getting older and more mature mentally and physically certainly won’t hurt moving forward.

Trae from PVB:
Doug Marrone looks to be a pretty big dude.

John: If you say so, Trae – though I hadn’t thought about it that way … oh, you said pretty “big” dude.

Mike from Atlanta, GA:
Am I the only one not worried about Poz moving to the strong side? He has been one of the best linebackers in the NFL over the last several years against the run. I’m pretty sure he can handle it.

John: You may not be alone in not worrying, but more people are worrying about than I expected. And I’m pretty sure he can handle it, too. The move isn’t to be taken lightly. As Posluszny himself will tell you, he’s playing on the line of scrimmage in this new position compared to playing off the ball. That’s a significant change. But is he professional enough and capable enough to do it? I believe so.

Nate from Orange Park, FL:
John, I’m glad the Jags will get to see the Bucs up close and personal for joint practices, in hopes our brass can learn something about amassing talent able to go from 2-14 to a winning record in two years. Perhaps completely decimating a roster and sitting on your thumbs in free agency the first year to establish a “culture” isn’t the correct approach to rebuilding as we were made to believe so many, many years ago…

John: You’re right. Jameis Winston does appear to be developing into a solid quarterback quickly while Blake Bortles has taken more time to develop. I couldn’t agree more.

Josh from Pensacola, FL:
One reader tried to make a comparison of Gus Bradley’s time in Jacksonville to Bill Belichick’s time in Cleveland. Belichick’s 36-44 record doesn’t make him a bad coach. Sorry, but 36-44 is a heckuva lot better than 14-48. No comparison – and Bradley was indeed a bad coach. It would’ve taken Gus a decade to reach 36 wins.

John: OK.

David from Oviedo, FL:
Emmitt Smith is the NFL’s all-time rushing leader with 18,356 yards. The only active running backs in striking distance of that record are Frank Gore (5,291 short) and Adrian Peterson (6,609 short). Do you think either one of them has enough in the tank to claim arguably the greatest record in the NFL record books?

John: No.

Russell from Mason:
I have been a Jaguars fan since day one of 1995. I had to relocate to Cincinnati and I have never been able to see the Jaguars play a game. It is my hope that the fans will become a rabid as the Browns fans are … win or lose … the Browns fans are extremely loyal and passionate. Jacksonville, appreciate what you have in this team and this owner!!!

John: The Browns have great fans, but whatever you say about this franchise – or whatever debate, argument, discussion or accompanying free-for-alls you may read in this space each day – make no mistake: Jaguars fans are phenomenally loyal and passionate. Do they criticize the team? Sure. Remember, there’s no law that says fans must like everything a team does. There’s no law that says fans must never criticize players. There’s no law fans can’t be frustrated and angry when a team loses. That’s part of being a fan. I believe the Jaguars’ fans rank with any in the NFL in terms of passion and loyalty. This is a franchise that for a variety of reasons has lost in all-too regular fashion in recent seasons. That has helped the franchise and the city sometimes be unfairly criticized in national circles. Yet, through it all the fans have remained strong, loyal and passionate. I have said often that I no longer root for teams. I’ve covered sports too long to get overly emotional about the victories and losses. But if the Jaguars could win and give this fan base the winner for which it has waited and that it definitely deserves … yeah, even this cynical writer would get a little emotional over that.

Irrelevant from Jacksonville:
I heard from an anonymous source that you’re the kind of guy who tends to worsen a person.

John: That’s on the record.

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O-Zone: Name game

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

Jake from Jacksonville:
If Poz struggles early in the season at Sam, who do you see on the roster that could fill that position?

John: I’m getting a version of this question quite a bit in recent days, and I find it a curious one. While the transition to strong-side linebacker indeed will be an adjustment for Paul Posluszny after a decade playing NFL middle linebacker – and while he has called it the toughest challenge of his career – that doesn’t remotely mean he won’t be able to do it. He’s not going to be asked to put his hand on the ground and rush the passer. I guess the coverage aspect of the position has people concerned, but he’s not going to be a pass-coverage specialist; besides, he’s far better in coverage than most observers seem to want to believe. He’s going to play a heavy run-defending position, one that’s on the field far less than the middle-linebacker position he has played before. Will it be easy? No, but he’s a smart, dedicated player. I don’t know why he wouldn’t be able to make the transition. Who would play it if he can’t do it? Hayes Pullard, I suppose. Or possibly Blair Brown in a pinch. I doubt that will be necessary.

Ricky from Fairport, NY:
Regarding the 90-man roster you said: “This is a positive change for teams, because it allows them to keep 15 additional players for the final preseason game that normally would have been released the previous week.” There’s nothing “positive” about benefitting preseason games.

John: Wow. Little benefits or thrills me more than when people quote back to me prose I penned just hours before – for without such a reminder, I surely would have forgotten my well-crafted words. But alas … while fans may see no benefit in preseason games, I assure you teams will benefit from having more players available for the preseason finale.

Gabe from Washington, DC:
I had the same thought regarding snaps for Brandon Allen versus Chad Henne in the preseason. Then something occurred to me: If Henne is better right now, does the team need him taking snaps with the second team to determine how good everyone else is? It’s probably my not fair to the receivers (or coaches) to be judged on their performance with a lesser quarterback. Or nah?

John: The issue here probably won’t be as much wanting to judge the second group of receivers as wanting to get your backup quarterback preseason repetitions. If Henne indeed is to be the backup quarterback, then Henne needs preseason reps to prepare for the regular season. Because he is an experienced veteran, he doesn’t need to play every snap of every preseason game, but you don’t want him on the sideline the entire time, either.

Chris from Mandarin:
Okay, John, what are the circumstances that prevented Gus Bradley from being successful? Was it his inability to hire competent coordinators to run the offense and defense, or was it the inability to put players in position to be successful, such as having Julius Thomas block way more often than should have been considered OK (and this is only one of a myriad of examples so don’t latch on to it) or maybe it was lack of comprehension of in-game situations that caused poor clock management? Perhaps none of these things were of Bradley’s control and that is why you do not think he was a bad coach. Uh no, John, Gus Bradley was a poor head coach. Maybe he will be better if he goes on to be a head coach elsewhere, but if he does I imagine he will change his approach.

John: Believe me, I understand that this is one way to look at the issue …

Roger from Houston, TX:
Cliff from Washington, DC: As head coach of the Browns, Bill Belichick was 36-44, and 5-11 in his last season with the team. I suppose that makes him a bad coach.

John: … and there’s also another way.

Joe from Fleming Island, FL:
Happy Memorial Day weekend. It would seem that a player, or players, who miss voluntary workouts in May is highly unlikely to a significant effect in September. However, does it not show a little bit of unprofessionalism or immaturity not to contact the team and inform them of plans or intentions. I taught my kids that it is common courtesy to keep people around them informed. Shouldn’t it be expected for professionals making millions of dollars to take the five minutes to make a phone call?

John: I think it’s safe to say that in the case of Jalen Ramsey not attending the first day of organized team activities that Jaguars Head Coach Doug Marrone would have appreciated a call. I also think it’s safe to say I’d be surprised if this issue ranks highly on the myriad of issues on this team in the coming months or even weeks. Or even days.

David from Orlando, FL:
I’m disappointed that Denard Robinson is still a free agent. He’s a great young athlete with elite speed, and I don’t think he got much of a chance to shine here. In my opinion, it appeared the coaches wanted him to be the “run-full-speed-to-where-the-hole-should-be” guy, not the patient “use-your-instincts-to get-into-the-open-field” guy. Here’s hoping someone takes a chance on him and that we haven’t heard the last of Denard Robinson. Can I get one for D-Rob?

John: I don’t know when or if the NFL will hear again from Robinson, mainly because I don’t know that he is enough of a position fit to get a serious long-term look after his rookie contract. I hope I’m wrong, because I like Robinson a lot. So, yeah … one fer D-Rob.

John from Jacksonville:
I think we might tempt the Patriots for what could become known in media as “CampGate.” Yes, the Patriots are very interested in gaining intelligence on the Jags for an advantage in the preseason and beyond.

John: You make a valid point.

Brett from Jacksonville:
I know at one point there was discussion about the amphitheater also being an indoor practice facility. Was that idea abandoned, or is it just not being talked about with the excitement of the concerts?

John: The flex-field portion of the Daily’s Place project is scheduled to be completed this summer. The amphitheater portion will open Saturday.

Kyle from Riverside:
O-Man, you’re right! I completely agree. The talent is better since David Caldwell took over four years ago. However, you could have improved the talent on this team by blindly throwing darts at a draft board (which some believe out there is what really happens in the Jag War Room).

John: OK.

Ray from Jacksonville:
John: Two comments on Wednesday’s column. I suppose Mike Mularkey was a bad coach here and is now looking to be a good coach in Tennessee. Oh yeah, he now has a good quarterback. As to hits and misses, Byron Leftwich is considered a “miss,” but he had a better first three years than our current first-rounder.

John: Ray: Two comments on your comments. Yes. OK.

Damian from Appleton, WI:
I realize we are dedicating to the run and we know you want great run blockers on the field such as tight end Marcedes Lewis. Who do you think will be the No. 1 tight end? Do you suspect multiple tight-end sets? Is Lewis the starter? What do you think about who plays what roles as our current group of tight end?

John: I think Mychal Rivera will be the No. 1 receiving tight end with Marcedes Lewis the No. 1 blocking tight end, and I think Neal Sterling and Ben Koyack essentially will be the backups at those positions. And yes … I do think the Jaguars will use a lot of two-tight end sets. That’s the most balanced formation, and therefore a very tough formation to defend.

Jon from Brentwood, UK:
John, just been listening to Poz on Jaguars Live and his emphasis that it will be reps that help him increase his confidence and familiarity in the new role. How much of a hindrance are the CBA rules on offseason/preseason OTA /practice restrictions to someone who is suddenly thrust into a new and unfamiliar role?

John: Not too, too much. NFL teams have 10 organized team activities and three minicamp practices. They then have an entire training camp of practices in late July and August. While teams will always want more practices if they can get them, that’s a pretty fair amount of offseason work.

Jon from California:
Hey O-man, you know how the media always use to refer to the Vikings as “Adrian Peterson and the Vikings” as if Christian Ponder wasn’t even there? Do you think we will be “Leonard Fournette and the Jaguars” on Sundays or will Blake Bortles come off enough as the leader of our team to the media? Thanks.

John: I haven’t thought about this, and I hope I don’t have to start.

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O-Zone: O-Zone: Diehard fan

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

Marcus from Jacksonville:
John, I’m wondering why the determination of “hit” versus “miss” in terms of draft picks and free-agent signings is skewed. It seems as if, in your estimation, a guy can be deemed a “hit” after just one good season (Jalen Ramsey, Myles Jack, Yannick Ngakoue, etc). On the other hand, a guy like Blake Bortles can’t be determined a “miss” after three seasons because he needs more of a chance. I feel the same was true about Luke Joeckel, who was often deemed a question mark (not a hit or miss) until the day he left town. Is there a reason you feel like it takes three-plus years to prove you’re bad but only one to prove you’re good?

John: First, I don’t know that your assessment of my assessment is accurate. Yes, I think Jalen Ramsey is unquestionably a hit; the plays he made last season and the way he performed consistently leads me to believe he will be a multiyear Pro Bowl section in this league. If it were possible, I’d probably sign him to a second contract right now; he’s that sort of talent. As for Ngakoue and Jack, I wouldn’t put them anywhere close to that level. I think Ngakoue showed some seriously good signs as a rookie, but he in no way firmly established himself as a difference-making pass rusher. That’s not to say he can’t or won’t, but more time is needed to know. As for Jack, I have no idea the level he will reach and he absolutely has a long way to go to fulfill his talent. I wouldn’t remotely call him a hit yet, though he obviously has the talent to be just that. As for it taking a while to know if players are going to be good … that’s just a matter of learning from experience. I have seen too many cases of players developing in their third and fourth seasons to believe a few seasons at the beginning of careers necessarily define all players.

Brandon from Duval:
Hey John, do you foresee any dark horses coming out of nowhere to make the 53-man roster this year? Also, thanks for all you and the staff do for us fans!

John: This annually is a tricky question, because it’s difficult to know the definition of a “dark horse.” Is it an undrafted free-agent rookie? Do people consider veteran player such as guard Earl Watford or defensive tackle Stefan Charles “dark horses” because they weren’t the highest-profile free agents? The last two sentences might serve as a hint about my answer, because I see players such as Watford and Charles making the team. The other area to watch is collegiate free agency. It’s way early, obviously, but players such as Hunter Dimick and Amba Etta-Tawo have college credentials that make you think they have a chance to stick.

Mike from Orlando, FL:
Do you think Jalen Ramsey has given up on the Jags after last season being so bad? I feel like if he takes a step back this year it will be the end of him ever being elite. Losing can ruin teams and players.

John: Are you serious, Clark?

Sam from Orlando, FL:
You mentioned something interesting and just for fun, here’s a question. Take this exact team. Add Tom Brady. Where do you see the record and what is the season expectation?

John: This answer perhaps isn’t quite so simple as it seems. Are the Jaguars running the Patriots’ offense in your scenario? Is Brady as comfortable in the offense as he is in the one he has been running more than a decade and a half in New England? If all of that is the case, then I think adding Brady would get the Jaguars to the playoffs in the 10-to-11 victory range.

Terez from Illinois:
Who do you think will be the Jaguars’ leading receiver this season. And what will his stats be?

John: Allen Robinson, who I believe will put up good numbers – though probably not on par with his 1,400-yard, 14-touchdown season of 2015. It’s not that Robinson can’t have a very big year; it’s just that even if he does those numbers will be tough to duplicate.

Cliff from Washington, DC:
So, if Gus was not a bad coach, what makes a coach bad? I’m pretty sure wins and losses are what determines if a coach is considered good or bad. I know you have talked about it a bunch before but I’m still baffled by your response. I guess it’s just your opinion but this in fact isn’t even up for debate. He was a bad coach because he lost way more than he won.

John: I’m sorry you’re baffled. Being baffled can be … well, baffling. That’s true with or without debate. It’s also absolutely true that wins and losses are “considered” what makes a coach good or bad, but in fact that’s not always the case. Yes, Bradley lost far more than he won here, and yes … people are well within their rights to believe to their core he was a bad coach. And perhaps he was. Shoot, I probably would have believed the same thing in my younger days when I followed the game with a fan’s unbridled passion. But I try to see things in a somewhat objective way. Objectively, I know that coaches throughout NFL history have been fired after losing in one stop and gone on to far greater success at their next stop because the circumstances were right.

Dreamweaver from Section 241:
My theory on coaches and player relations is this: Players believe in a coach at first, but they truly buy into his message after they win a tough game that, in their hearts, they were more than 50 percent sure they would lose. Every tough win after that compounds the effect. Which makes the Texans opener a big game for Doug Marrone, although it already is one. What say you Zone?

John: There’s a lot to this theory, though I don’t know the exact percentages. Though my experience is that NFL players rarely believe in their heart of hearts they will lose, I do believe a team needs some measure of success to continue buying into a coach. That’s a psychological element that can’t be ignored. History tells me a coach can overcome a Week 1 loss, so I’m not going to overplay the regular-season opener. It would be big for the Jaguars to win it. Absolutely. But how big was it if they lose the next two?

Preston from Oakville:
O-man, what do you make of the new rule to eliminate the first roster cut? Will it help players more, teams more, or both, to have just one roster cut from 90 to 53?

John: This is a positive change for teams because it allows them to keep 15 additional players for the final preseason game that normally would have been released the previous week. That gives the teams far more options in a game in which they are typically not playing starters and front-line players. The benefit to players is that it gives borderline players one more game to audition for their current and other teams. The teams probably benefit more, but it’s good for all parties.

Charles from Midlothian, VA:
Any real reason to even start Chad Henne in preseason? Shouldn’t we be grooming Brandon Allen to be the No. 2? We know what we got in Henne, and he won’t be competing with Blake Bortles for the top quarterback position. But Allen is still young and could and should.

John: Brandon Allen started the preseason final against Atlanta last season. I see little reason why he wouldn’t do so again. I also think he’ll play in the other three games. As for who gets how many reps and when, I imagine we’ll know a lot more about that come training camp.

Matt from Easton, PA:
This question may be better suited for once training camp starts, but what impact (if any) do you think Coach McCardell will have with the receivers? Will there be any noticeable differences in how the receivers play this year?

John: I don’t know that you’ll look at the Jaguars’ receivers as a group next season and think, “My goodness … this is a Keenan McCardell-coached group.” That’s in part because while players such as Robinson, Allen Hurns and Marqise Lee aren’t necessarily completed products, they are experienced enough to have their own style already developed. One thing you might see from a McCardell-coached group is grit, toughness and professionalism. He displayed that as a player and I can’t imagine he won’t demand it from his receivers.

Chris from Jacksonville:
This is the time of year when I become consumed with childlike optimism for the Jaguars’ 2017 season. Despite our lack of success, I do this to myself every year. Am I a diehard fan or just a chump?

John: You’re not just a chump.

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O-Zone: Once in a lifetime

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

Marc from Oceanway, FL:
Hey O: Am I an idiot or something? I listen to Blake Bortles explain how he is improving, along with the confidence he has in himself, in [offensive coordinator] Nate [Hackett], in the system, and in his refined mechanics. It all sounds so genuine and believable. It makes me excited for the upcoming season … again! What is wrong with me?

John: You’re not an idiot – at least not because of your belief in Bortles. The offseason is about optimism and fresh starts – and Bortles has had enough success that it’s not unreasonable to think he could improve. Remember, too: the Jaguars this offseason could have drafted or pursued another quarterback, and they believed enough in Bortles to continue with him as the starting quarterback. That doesn’t guarantee Bortles anything for the long term, but it shows a measure of belief that he can play at a winning level. In the case of Executive Vice President of Football Operations Tom Coughlin, there was no tie to Bortles; it stands to reason Coughlin sees something in Bortles. Those are all factors that make you think Bortles could develop and improve. It’s also not unreasonable to think he could struggle again. I wish I had a better, more definitive answer, but the reality is Bortles is the Jaguars’ great unknown entering the 2017 season – and the reality, too, is we won’t have any idea how to assess his progress until that season begins. All we can do between now and then is speculate, project and discuss – and we undoubtedly will do just that.

Lance from Jacksonville:
Why is it OK for someone getting paid millions of dollars to miss work but for anyone working a 9-to-5 for far less can’t even be one-minute late? These missing players need to grow up and do their job. We were 3-13 last year! There are no days off for losing teams!

John: This link might help.

Jordan from Joplin:
You’re starting a team from scratch and can take any defensive player in the NFL to be on your team. Who would you want?

John: J.J. Watt – and I don’t disagree with some who believe he’s a little overrated. That’s because some analysts worship his every move and rate him as inventing defensive football. He didn’t invent defensive football, but he’s still a once-in-a-generation guy. And when healthy, he still is the NFL’s best defensive player.

Justin from Hampton, VA:
I remember not too long ago when the 49ers were in our position. Stocking up on top 10 talent for years until they got Jim Harbaugh, who turned that organization around in one year. Do you think we’ll be able to do the same? It’s overdue!

John: The situations are in fact similar. A key for the 49ers of the Harbaugh Era was that Alex Smith turned into a productive quarterback under Harbaugh after struggling beforehand. If Bortles improves similarly, then yes … there are pieces here for a turnaround. I don’t know that I realistically see three consecutive seasons of 11-plus victories, because that’s a turnaround of historic scale, but I do expect improvement in the .500 range.

Chris from Norfolk, VA:
How much of the offense will be new and how do you see Bortles and Brandon Allen‘s preseason snaps?

John: The terminology is new, and I expect a much heavier emphasis on the run with more sets featuring the fullback. As far as preseason repetitions, I expect Bortles to get what starting quarterbacks usually get – about a quarter in the first game, more in the second, into the second half in the third and none in the finale. I imagine Allen will get more than he did last preseason, with that number depending largely upon how he and Chad Henne perform during the offseason and training camp.

Emory from Jacksonville Beach:
I’ve attended Jags training camps since the first one. When it comes to organization, Tom Coughlin’s was a coaches’ dream. Will Coughlin give advice to the coaching staff on how preseason practices will be conducted?

John: If Head Coach Doug Marrone asks, Coughlin will advise in that area, but remember: Marrone has been a head coach two seasons in the NFL and four seasons at Syracuse University. He has his own approach and has consulted with many coaches – including Coughlin – about many things. I imagine Marrone’s practices will be disciplined, fast and strenuous – and sure, there likely will be a hint of Coughlin if for no other reason than Marrone and Coughlin share many of the same beliefs and philosophies.

Justin from Hampton, VA:
I respect Poz, one of our best players over the last couple of seasons, but moving him to the strong side sounds like a setup for an epic fail. He couldn’t cover in the middle, and I doubt he’ll be able to cover on the strong side as well. I noticed we’re working out a lot of linebackers, too. Maybe I’m not the only one seeing the end of an era. I wouldn’t be shocked if we cut him this offseason. You have to agree, O-man.

John: No, I don’t.

Bryan from Tampa, FL:
How do you feel about the Jaguars traveling to Foxborough for joint training camp practices? Do you think it could benefit the Jags to observe “The Patriot Way,” or will that not really be on display in such an environment?

John: It will be on display, though it’s not realistic to think a team can take another team’s entire system and implement it based on a few days of observation. Also: while I haven’t checked on it, I don’t think the Patriots will let Tom Brady join the Jaguars and begin playing quarterback for them — and that’s really the part of the Patriot Way that would most benefit any team.

D-Frame from Jacksonville:
John: Man, I’m a Jags fan and I’m ready for not just improvement but a winning season what all will it take?

John: Few giveaways, particularly from the quarterback. Better pass rush, particularly in key situations. More takeaways, which will happen with better pass rush. Better running game, particularly late in games.

John from Mexico, NY:
O, do you really think firing Gus Bradley was the answer to our slump? I’m from New York and am familiar with both Tom Coughlin and Doug Marrone; I feel the team would have benefited most with all three coaches on board. I know T.C. had great luck with the Giants over the years but was often questioned on his lack of consistency. D.M. has head-coaching experience but was lackluster at best even at Syracuse University. I know Gus was great in his stint at Seattle but obviously struggled at the helm. I feel he just got a bad shake. Under the eyes of Coughlin and the help from Coach DM he could’ve done better. How bout #oneforgus.

John: I’m fine with one fer Gus Bradley, but it was time for a new direction. Many believe he’s an awful coach. Despite his record, I don’t agree with that. But whatever you think of Bradley’s abilities as a coach, a coach can only lose for so long before players stop believing in the message. It was time for a change late last season, and the change was made. Now, players will get another message, Marrone’s message. Players will hear it so long as they believe it gives them a chance to succeed personally and as a team. Right now, they’re hearing it.

Ernest from South Side Jacksonville:
Hey O, I have two questions for you. First, do you think we will see some two-back sets on offense? Secondly, have we reached the point where good but not great players will finally get cut from a Jags roster that normally gets other teams’ second-string options in the offseason? Oh – and we finally have a wide receiver corps that is deep, and a wide-receiver coach that I think is not scared to get in their face after dropped passes.

John: Ernest, a few responses for you. I believe you’ll see a lot of two-back sets if by two backs you mean a running back and a fullback; I doubt you’ll see much two-running back stuff. Secondly, I suppose some good players will get released this preseason, but the Jaguars have released some good players in recent seasons, too – particularly last season. Oh, and former wide receivers coach Jerry Sullivan was one of the most respected receivers coaches in the NFL; he wasn’t scared of any players.

David from Orlando, FL:
“And you may ask yourself, how do I work this? And you may ask yourself, where is that large automobile? And you may tell yourself, this is not my beautiful house! And you may tell yourself, this is not my beautiful wife!” Do you ever worry that trying to make sense of every illogical or unintelligible question, day after day, year after year, will cause mental illness?

John: My God, what have I done?

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O-Zone: Binging

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

Rob from Jacksonville:
Circumstances factor so much into a player’s development. Suppose Jimmy Garoppolo or Derek Carr had been the choice instead of Blake Bortles in 2014 … I would put my chips down on the fact we would be talking about them in the same manner as Blake Bortles. Just a hunch.

John: This is a question with no answer, obviously. Circumstances indeed influence NFL careers. Had Tom Brady been drafted by a franchise with a young quarterback who never got hurt, would he have had the same career he has had in New England? Had Dak Prescott been selected by a team without a dominant offensive line, would he have had the rookie season he had in Dallas last season? There’s no way to know, but those players undoubtedly would have taken different paths. How would Carr or Garoppolo have fared in different circumstances? Carr looks to me like a player who would have succeeded no matter where he was drafted; time will tell how Garoppolo fares when he gets a chance to start full time. Would either player have succeeded with the Jaguars? That’s impossible to know. The circumstances around Bortles during his first three seasons were less than ideal, and though Bortles without question has contributed at times to those circumstances, many quarterbacks indeed would have struggled here the last few seasons.

Chris from Norfolk, VA:
Maybe the best move we could do is try to sign Darrelle Revis to come in on a one-year deal for his knowledge alone. I know those tires are worn and he hasn’t had other offers. Am I reaching with alligators arms?

John: I obviously didn’t cover Revis last season, but based on the opinions of those who did, Revis’ knowledge wasn’t all that beneficial to the Jets.

Cliff from Jersey City, NJ:
Hey O, what do you remember of the XFL?

John: I remember watching the first game on a Saturday in February 2001. I remember thinking the spectacle was interesting and hoping it would work. I remember the football being bad, then I remember losing interest pretty quickly when the football didn’t improve. So, in many respects my XFL experience was pretty common.

Glenn from Orange Park, FL:
I’m not sure how anyone can justify giving Caldwell an “F” when he brought in players like Marqise Lee, Allen Robinson, Allen Hurns, Telvin Smith, Jalen Ramsey, Abry Jones, Brandon Linder, A.J. Cann, Malik Jackson, Yannick Ngakoue, Sheldon Day, Dante Fowler Jr., Tashaun Gipson, etc. This team has far more talent than when Caldwell arrived. Has every move worked out as hoped? Of course not. But let’s not ignore all the good and focus only on the bad when in reality the majority is still incomplete, including Bortles. Caldwell’s biggest mistake may turn out to be not changing head coach sooner, and do we really know if that was in his power? Looking forward to seeing this team with a new coach.

John: Caldwell’s legacy indeed still is yet to be determined. I believe this team is more talented than when he arrived. At the same time, that talent has won eight games in the last two seasons, so those who question the talent level have reason to do so.

Don from Ponte Vedra Beach, FL:
Take a good look at the defenses Blake Bortles played against last year. That schedule was brutal. Blake played the whole year and had his two best games at the end with a very young team. From Day One, he has been able to move the ball. When the team gets better he will get better. A lot of his mistakes came from trying to do too much. I think all the critics are wrong about him and at the end of the Super Bowl they will know. Star player in my book!

John: The Jaguars have placed a lot of faith this season on the crux of your theory – that what they saw from Bortles in the final two games of last season can be part of a foundation on which to build. That’s the ray of hope based on a very, very small sample size. If the Jaguars are right, perhaps this franchise can improve quickly. If not …

Nathan from Provo, UT:
Sounds like Steve from Denver plays video games too much. As far as this team? Calais Campbell said it best because, yes, the pieces are in place. Don’t be surprised when this team, which is loaded with “winners,” does just that. Here’s to a home playoff game this season!! … Believe.

John: #DTWD

Bill from Rochester, NY:
The Jets recently have drafted a lot of quarterbacks in the second and third rounds: Geno Smith, Bryce Petty, Hackenberg … none are starter-worthy and all three used draft selections that could’ve been used on other positions to strengthen the roster. There’s really no system, just scout and hope!

John: This is in response to a recent O-Zone question about teams drafting quarterbacks every year until they find one, and the response does point out the counterargument: If a team takes a quarterback it doesn’t believe in around the second or third rounds every year, the absence of those second- and third-round linebackers, safeties, offensive linemen, etc., can weaken your roster in a hurry. But yeah … of course there’s no system. If there was a system then everyone would use it and succeed … well, systematically.

Shea from Sellersburg, IN:
Dear Mr. John, sir: who do you think will have the biggest impact on defense? Campbell, A.J. Bouye or Myles Jack moving to the middle – and why good sir?

John: Of the group you reference, I think Campbell will have the biggest impact – provided, of course, he remains healthy for most of the season. The reason: defense is about disruption, and Campbell as a member of the defensive front is in a position to create that disruption. Furthermore, the Jaguars need Campbell to make the most impact of the three players you mentioned. The Jaguars last season for the most part played adequately defensively – and in some cases, the unit played very well. The players Bouye and Jack are replacing, Prince Amukamara and Paul Posluszny, were far from liabilities – and in many cases, Amukamara and Posluszny played very well. The missing piece for the Jaguars’ defense last season often was the ability to disrupt the quarterback in crucial situations. If Campbell can help the Jaguars generate that sort of pass rush, his impact will be enormous.

Josh from Fernandina Beach, FL:
O-Man, there appears to be little to no expectation that Bortles will be challenged by Allen (at least at this juncture). In your expert opinion, what aspects of Bortles’ game, as compared to Allen’s, give Bortles such a seemingly decisive edge (exclusive of experience)? Thanks!

John: Bortles has started three NFL seasons, and that’s not to be ignored. He also has shown at times many attributes you want in a quarterback – toughness, leadership, production in yards and touchdowns. His main issue has been key turnovers at key times. It’s hard to judge Allen – and therefore, hard to have an expert opinion – because he has had so little time in NFL action. He’ll be in Year 2 this year, and perhaps there will be a notable Year 2 progression that forces the issue in the offseason and minicamp. We’ll see.

Ed from Ponte Vedra, FL:
Everything I read or hear is T.C. this and T.C. that. Is Coach Marrone a second fiddle?

John: No, you read a lot about Tom Coughlin because he’s well-known and well-respected nationally – and by Jaguars fans. Because of that, it stands to reason people are going to ask questions about him – and that he’s going to be a focus of national media when discussing the Jaguars. He also has the final say on football decisions, so when people discuss the actions of the organization during the offseason those discussions are going to focus on Coughlin’s style and philosophy. But Doug Marrone is the head coach and he makes decisions and runs the team on a day-to-day to basis. Now, the team will very much have a “Coughlin feel,” but that’s because Marrone and Coughlin share on a lot of views and believes – not because Marrone is a “second fiddle.”

Ivan from Hollywood, FL:
Here is one for Allen Hurns. He spoke at his former high school, Miami Carol City, about the importance of commitment and perseverance in tough times. He also made a donation to the school’s athletic department. Carol City is a neighborhood with a high poverty rate where crime and drug use is wide spread.

John: All true. When Hurns speaks about commitment and perseverance in tough times he knows of what he speaks. One fer Hurns? No doubt.

Art from Drexel Hill:
Seems like a lot of people have “film” mixed up with YouTube highlights.

John: Shhhhh. If you tell would-be scouts that binge-watching YouTube highlights isn’t real scouting you’re going to have a lot of very disillusioned would-be scouts.

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O-Zone: Romper room

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

James from Jacksonville:
Would we really be losing much if we let Branden Albert go considering we only gave a pick that doesn’t mean that much? I’m not a big Albert fan and I think Cam Robinson will win the left tackle job anyway. Been watching film on him and he’s a beast – Robinson, that is. Albert in my opinion has seen his better days. Thanks and just want to say you’re awesome.

John: You buried the lede – and you can write anytime, by the way. But, yes … the Jaguars potentially would be giving up a lot if they released Branden Albert. They would be giving up a starting-caliber left tackle – at minimum, a starting-caliber offensive lineman. They also would be giving up an experienced player who has proven he can play at a Pro Bowl level – not to mention a player Jaguars Executive Vice President of Football Operations Tom Coughlin clearly thought he fit what the team wants to do offensively next season. But the biggest reason for not releasing Albert is there’s no reason to release him. There are, incidentally, reports that he will attend organized team activities this week; if he does so, then the holdout that wasn’t in fact a holdout will seem meaningless in a hurry. And even if he doesn’t attend OTAs, there’s no reason to release him. It’s the offseason. While the goings on at EverBank Field are undoubtedly of great importance, they are nonetheless voluntary. VOLUNTARY.

Jaguarrior from Duval:
I wish I could behave like a Texans fan, but unfortunately, my team loses. Geez, even the so-called fans wanna coddle Bortles.

John: OK. I guess.

Rob from Brunswick, GA:
John, we open against the Texans who are either going to be starting a rookie quarterback, or will not have their shiny new first-round quarterback ready to go. Either way, seems like an advantage for us. Plus, it’s the Texans; you know we’ll be up for that game. I predict our first season-opening win in a very long time!

John: A rookie quarterback indeed adds uncertainty to any game, particularly the regular-season opener. While I caution against people assuming the Texans will struggle this season because of their quarterback situation, there’s no question that situation will be a major storyline Week 1 – and it could work to the Jaguars’ advantage. But don’t forget: the Texans have overcome such uncertainties against the Jaguars in recent seasons. Don’t assume they can’t do it again.

Will from Green Cove Springs, FL:
Zone, you recently said something to the effect that Caldwell has drafted well, if not “spectacular.” Saturday you gave his efforts, which per the reader’s question generously omitted the dismal 2013 draft, a “C.” As much as I would have loved growing up in the Oehser home where I was told my C-grades were borderline spectacular, the fact remains that if we have to re-draft the quarterback position in 2018, Caldwell scores a D-minus at best. Carson Palmer and Alex Smith were both available in 2013 free agency. Derek Carr will be a ten-year Pro Bowler, while Jimmy Garoppolo could have commanded a king’s ransom in trade; both from Blake’s class. And, even though Dave claims the Bills never called with the same offer they gave the Browns to move up for Sammy Watkins at four in 2014, common sense dictates they did. It wouldn’t have been the first time a GM has said what he thought he needed to say after the draft in order to both alleviate further scrutiny of his pick, and not allow for additional pressure on his rookie quarterback resulting from such high opportunity cost. That trade ammunition would have moved us up for Winston or Mariota in 2015. Any of those moves would have been exponentially better than reaching for Bortles. I take it back; if we have to re-draft the quarterback position in 2018, the grade is an “F.”

John: I don’t know that I ever said Cs were borderline spectacular, and my answer wasn’t meant to imply that Caldwell’s draft record has been anything close to spectacular. And while Carr indeed appears on his way to a very good career, it might be a sliver early to anoint him a 10-year Pro Bowl selection and I don’t know that I’d recommend preparing the bronze bust that goes along with such a career. Look, right now Bortles absolutely looks like an iffy pick. I won’t dispute that, and I’m on record saying I don’t know his end game. Did Caldwell miss on Garoppolo and Carr? Perhaps, though I’ll let Garrappolo start for an extended period for a team other than New England before determining that – and no way, incidentally, were Carr and Garoppolo going No. 3 overall that year, either. Bottom line: Bortles hasn’t been good enough yet, and it’s easy to say in retrospect he was a reach. But I’m not one to base a general manager’s entire grade on a quarterback, though considering the importance of the position I understand the tendency to do just that.

Dallas from Jacksonville:
Some people seem upset that we didn’t draft a quarterback in the late rounds. Did they forget that we drafted a quarterback in Round 6 last draft in Brandon Allen? Is it possible for Brandon Allen to potentially develop into a decent NFL quarterback?

John: Yes, it’s possible, but his situation also reflects the difficulty of solving your Quarterback Issue through the mid-to-late rounds of the draft. You might solve it there, but it’s tricky trying to solve it immediately with any rookie quarterback – particularly one selected in the later rounds.

John from Jacksonville:
The biggest answer to … why didn’t we draft a quarterback in the late rounds? I think it is because we did that last year; he is still on the roster, and appears to have more (if not at least as much) upside then anyone that was around later in this year’s draft. Do you think Brandon Allen is one of the most forgotten players by the fans?

John: I think a lot of fans remember Allen because I get a lot of questions about Allen. It’s understandable he’s overlooked because the media and the team doesn’t talk about him a whole lot. He didn’t play after the preseason last season, so no one outside the team has seen him play. It’s easy to get forgotten in those circumstances. As of now, I honestly doubt Allen will push Blake Bortles significantly for the starting position –primarily because there hasn’t been much chatter around the team about that. Maybe that will change during organized team activities. We’ll see.

Paul from Orange Park, FL:
Stranded island movie? Monty Python and the Holy Grail….Ni!

John: What’s your favorite color?

Kent from Jacksonville:
Now that T.C. is back, I noticed the minicamp was closed to everybody, even the media. Will this continue during training camp? Or will some of the practices be open to the public?

John: Many of the practices at the beginning of training camp will be open to the public – and to the media.

Daniel since Day One, Jacksonville:
I didn’t mean to say that a great quarterback isn’t important, but there aren’t that many great quarterbacks selected in the top 10. The success percentage isn’t that much higher than it is farther down the draft… maybe it’s one of the most difficult to project? I think you should take a low second-to-fourth-round pick every year or two – and your chances of finding one are as good or better than anything else you can do. You pretty much got to give the guy two years on the bench to see if he’s got it. If you don’t see it by the second year, grab another one until you’ve got two that are outstanding! Every first-round pick needs to be a solid starter on the team long-term. Dig through the haystack looking for quarterbacks … just keep digging!

John: Drafting a quarterback in the middle rounds of the draft every year is a theory that is floated a lot – and many people I respect a great deal are among those doing the floating. Though it’s a theory that indeed makes sense, that’s where it usually stays – very much in theory. The trouble with implementing it is that teams value second- and third-round selections and expect those players to be on the field. Most draft selections these days contribute on special teams and they often add speed/depth while keeping the roster young and comparatively inexpensive. There are also a lot of realities similar to the one currently facing the Jaguars – that while Blake Bortles hasn’t proven himself as a front-line NFL quarterback, he is a more appealing option to the team than playing your typical rookie fourth- or fifth-round quarterback. That prevents the late-round selection from getting extensive repetitions, and reduces at least somewhat the chance that the later-round selection will win the job.

Mike from Atlanta, GA:
Hey John, do you want to get matching rompers?

John: Of course.

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O-Zone: Victory dance

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

Tommy from Jacksonville:
John, what really frustrates me about this offseason is the fact we didn’t draft a quarterback in the mid-to-late rounds. Most NFL quarterbacks have not been drafted in the first two rounds. It seems crazy why you wouldn’t give it a shot in Round 5 or even 6. No one knows how a quarterback develops, but without giving it a shot you are guaranteed not to hit on a stud. Instead, you have someone that will be lucky for a second contract and hardly have playing time.

John: I understand your frustration. When a team has a quarterback who hasn’t played like a franchise guy, it’s easy for everyone involved – fans, included – to be frustrated. But I don’t necessarily agree with your assessment about where you find quarterbacks. Sure, quarterbacks such as Tom Brady, and Dak Prescott are notable late-round finds, but your percentages of finding a front-line starter go up dramatically in Rounds 1 and 2. Aaron Rodgers. Matt Ryan. Cam Newton. Philip Rivers. Ben Roethlisberger. Eli Manning. Derek Carr. Marcus Mariota. Jameis Winston. Drew Brees. Carson Palmer. Alex Smith. Joe Flacco. All were early-round choices. That’s not to say the Jaguars couldn’t have found a potential starter in the late rounds in this year’s draft, but considering this was not considered a great quarterback class, it’s not shocking in retrospect that they passed on the position.

Jags Fan 818:
OK, Zone … I’ve got to spit it out. For those idiots out there who believe POZ can’t cover – have you not watched the Jaguars over the years since Poz has been here??? He has been the “constant” player on this team. There are very few plays Poz isn’t/wasn’t involved in!!!!! Poz definitely deserves RESPECT. He will put his heart and soul into his new position and if for some reason he can’t do it, I believe he would bench himself! Go Poz, Go Jaguars!

John: Hey, one fer Poz!

James from London, England:
As a Brit that follows – but doesn’t know all the intricacies of – the NFL, what do analysts mean when they say a “smash-mouth” offense? Do they mean that the Jags are gonna have one hit and then fade away into oblivion? No disrespect to Smash Mouth.

John: Clever – very clever, in fact. But it actually sounds like you did intend disrespect to Smash Mouth. And while I don’t know that that’s necessarily a crime in these parts, it’s not very … well, respectful. At least not to Smash Mouth. But no, when analysts talk about smash-mouth football they don’t mean one hit; they mean a physical, aggressive, constant commitment to a running offense that eventually wears defenses down and establishes the offense as the team able to enforce its will. The Jaguars appear committed to at least getting closer to that style than they have in recent seasons. When it works, it can be effective – and perhaps most pertinent to the Jaguars, it absolutely can help a quarterback.

John from Durango, UT:
What would a guy from Provo, UT know about being stranded on an island?

John: Maybe he meant Provo, Spain.

Trae from Ponte Vedra, FL:
Thanks for answering my earlier question about starting left tackle. You predicted Branden Albert. Does this prediction project Robinson to the bench or to left guard?

John: I in no way expect Robinson to be on the bench next season. If he doesn’t start at left tackle, I feel confident he will start at guard.

Tommy from Cherry Valley, PA:
Fans are definitely gonna fan. I was actually fanning this morning watching old footage from ’99 when I first became a Jaguars fan. I remember that year like it was yesterday. Though I’m only 28 now, I still remember Steve McNair torching us for five touchdowns – and for some reason Kyle Brady is a pretty vivid memory. I’m excited for this upcoming season. With that being said, how about one fer brady? 1999*

John: Fans should fan. Fanning is what makes football fun. One fer Brady? Absolutely.

Michael from Saskatoon:
Can you please explain to me why the Jags have not shown interest in Colin Kaepernick? This team definitely needs a quarterback competition, and am I the only person that thinks that could be a good fit? A good defense with special players on offense … why not try him out? He wants the opportunity to start and this team needs someone else at the quarterback position to help if Blake Bortles regresses further? Tell me, O-Man. Am I crazy??

John: You’re not crazy, but in this case the Jaguars don’t see Kaepernick as an upgrade over Bortles – and they don’t see Kaepernick as a good enough option to have as a potential backup. The best explanation I’ve heard about Kaepernick not yet being signed is that teams don’t see him as a starter, and his style makes it necessary to build much of the offense specifically for his skill set. This was similar to the issue teams had with Tim Tebow toward the end of his time in the NFL; it’s tricky to have a backup quarterback who doesn’t fit your style of offense because the team will have to make major adjustments in game plan and approach if the starter is hurt. If you add potential off-field noise then it makes it doubly tricky. Now, the argument many fans have is Kaepernick might be better than Bortles – and that the Jaguars should bring Kaepernick in and have camp competition. That’s an understandable opinion. The Jaguars don’t see that as a productive alternative and therefore aren’t doing it. That answer won’t satisfy many fans, but that’s the answer.

Stephen from Jacksonville:
Obviously, the construction cameras don’t show everything, but from what I can tell it looks like there are still more than a just few things left to do before the new facility is finished. Is the amphitheater really going to be concert ready in one week?

John: Yes.

J from Jacksonville:
I don’t disagree that David Caldwell has done some good in the later rounds of the draft and with cap management. But let’s not forget: his first three years of Top 5 picks have been subpar at best. Jalen Ramsey was a gift, and we will see how our newest selection turns out. That makes me a little hesitant in crowning him as the general manager of the future and extending the contract.

John: OK. I suppose we could go round and round on this in the O-Zone from now until the regular season. The Jaguars took a long-term approach early in David Caldwell’s tenure. The result of that is there were a lot of young players on the field in the past four seasons. The result is that the Jaguars still aren’t exactly a veteran-laden team. Caldwell’s last three drafts will look better if the team improves this season. If the team doesn’t improve, they won’t look better. That’s pretty much the story on this one.

Kendrick from Jacksonville:
Do you feel like the Jaguars have a good team chemistry that’s being developed during the offseason? Also, do you think I’tavius Mathers and Tim Cook can be offensive threats. I see from their highlights they have a similar running style to Leonard Fournette.

John: I see no reason why the Jaguars won’t develop good team chemistry this offseason. They have some strong veteran leaders such as Paul Posluszny, Calais Campbell, Telvin Smith and Barry Church. As far as Mathers and Cook, we really need to wait to see them against NFL competition before figuring their ability to be offensive threats. College highlight reels are cool. People like them. But they don’t always show much about how a player will adapt to the NFL.

Daniel Since Day One:
Your comment about the Texans winning the division with their quarterback array proves something I’ve always believed. They have beaten the No. 1 pick in the draft, the No. 2 pick in the draft and the No. 3 pick the draft. Maybe the other players on the team are more important than you and many other people think?

John: Other players matter very much, but if you watch the NFL playoffs year after year after year and don’t believe your percentages of winning go way, way, way up with an elite quarterback … well, if you’re doing that, then we’re not watching the same playoffs.

Luke from Jacksonville:
Are any of the OTAs going to be open to fans this year?

John: No.

Bryan from Jacksonville:
Is Myles Jack getting a new number? I see someone else wearing 44 in the pics of rookie minicamp.

John: No, there were dozens of tryout players in rookie minicamp who never will be in organized team activities or minicamp, so they therefore won’t ever be on the same field as Jack. Those players had to have numbers during that weekend, so many wore numbers of players on the regular roster.

Hey from Jacksonville:
Why did the Oehser cross the road?

John: To take his shirt off and do a sweaty, rain-soaked victory dance underneath a glorious morning rainbow. No, wait. That’s not why.

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O-Zone: Fans gonna…

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

James from Duval:
John, putting POZ at outside linebacker is just a way for the Jags to phase out a fan favorite without actually benching him. We all know he can’t cover well. I know you have Tom Coughlin over your shoulder, but let’s call it like it is, John.

John: I’ve called it like it is on this topic pretty much since the team moved Posluszny from middle to strong side a few weeks ago. I think there is some risk to the move because you’re moving a reliable player from a position he has played well for a long time and replacing him with a young player with next-to no NFL experience – and you’re doing so at an important position that affects a lot of other positions. I get why the move was made; it’s time to get Myles Jack’s talent, potential and athleticism on the field. The move wasn’t made with fans in mind, and I’d guess there are as many fans who wanted Posluszny out of the middle as there are fans upset he’s no longer there. As far as Posluszny not covering well, he likely will cover less now because he won’t be on the field nearly as much in passing situations. Either way, I’m not on the Poz-Can’t-Cover train as much as a lot of people. He’s a lot better in coverage and has better ball instincts than most observers believe. He has far and away more interceptions than any other Jaguars defender since his 2011 arrival. I don’t know if that’s calling it like it is, but there it is.

Julio from Southern California:
O, the Texans will win the division? With a rookie quarterback?

John: The Texans won it the last two seasons with Brian Hoyer and Brock Osweiler. Is it really that smart to count them out with Deshaun Watson?

Glen from Orange Park, FL:
Could you share your thoughts on this team’s floor and ceiling as far as wins are concerned for the upcoming season?

John: I don’t see Jaguars winning fewer than five games in 2017 and I don’t see them winning more than 10.

Russ from Jacksonville:
Under the CBA, if a player does hold out of mandatory training and regular-season games, does the team get any type of monetary damage awards for breach of contract? Thx, Big O.

John: The team can and usually does fine the player, though those fines sometimes are rescinded/forgiven when the player reports.

Trae from Ponte Vedra, FL:
Who is the starting left tackle for the regular-season opener?

John: I’m assuming you’re asking for my prediction. That’s Branden Albert.

Stephen from Jacksonville:
With running back Leonard Fournette, offensive lineman Cam Robinson and fullback Marquez Williams, the Jaguars are facing the possibility of having three rookies being counted on to solve the team’s running-game woes. It has been well-discussed in recent seasons that expecting players to be finished products during their first season often leads to disappointment. If all three of these players have starting/major roles next season, how much improvement in the running game can we really expect?

John: Running backs can and should be ready to contribute as rookies, and it’s actually the one position at which a player can and should be as good in Years 1-2 as he is in Years 3-4. Fullback also should be able to contribute relatively quickly. Rookie offensive linemen do face a learning curve, but one offensive lineman isn’t necessarily going to be the major cause of a team improving in the running game. It must be a collective effort, which is what makes Brandon Linder important. And Branden Albert. And Jermey Parnell. And …

Travis from St. Louis, MO:
This season will have its ups and downs. However, Fournette will run for over 1,000 yards, and Allen Robinson will be in 2015 form. Blake Bortles will throw for 26 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. The season will come down to Week 17 against the Titans, a game for the division: Jags win 27-24, and expel the demons of their past. Unfortunately, they will lose to a Steelers team poised for another shot at the Patriots. All in all, the Jags win the division, Titans in a close second with the Colts and the Texans unfortunately take a huge step back with no competitive quarterback play and a defense that gets nicked and injured all year long. Take it to the bank!! WHY NOT US!?

John: #DTWD

Luis from El Paso, TX:
Between Chris Ivory and Y.J. Yeldon, who would you keep for 2018?

John: You’re asking about a scenario that could occur a year from now at a position where much can change in such a time span. I also haven’t seen either player in the role he will be asked to play in 2017. Ivory is older, so if one of the two will be gone by that season, it likely would be Ivory.

Patrick from Victoria, Canada:
Hi John, first play of the season … pass or run? Thanks, Patrick.

John: Option. You’re welcome, John.

Ronald from Jacksonville:
Hi, John: With a better offensive line, and with Fournette in the backfield, do you believe that will give Blake more time and consequently improve his performance on the field? Being that he will have a core of great receivers to throw to, and being that the running game should get better also hopefully with the addition of Albert and Robinson. Saying all of this, what is your opinion on how well the Jaguars will do this year? Do you think maybe 8-8 or better?

John: If the offensive line indeed is improved, and if Fournette has the desired effect on the offense, there’s no way that combination won’t help Bortles. I’m not one who throws the around the word “great” with the Jaguars’ receivers yet, though. It’s a good group that has been productive in stretches, but great NFL receivers produce year after year after year and the Jaguars’ group of receivers hasn’t come close to doing that yet. And yes … I do believe if things fall into place this team can push for 8-8 or better.

Justin from Hampton, VA:
Dante Fowler Jr. was basically a rookie last year, coming off a season ending injury the year prior. People want to label him a bust, but I feel this will be his year to break out. Who do you believe will have a breakout year in 2017?
John: Dante Fowler Jr. and Myles Jack.

Mark from CP, MD:
The 2013 draft is all gone. The first three picks of the 2017 draft are the same positions as the 2015 draft class. With your infinite wisdom how would you grade all four draft classes so far?

John: I don’t have infinite wisdom, but I can tell you while the Jaguars’ 2013 draft was relatively unproductive, it also was a weak draft overall. Still, you would like to have at least one player from each class sign a second contract, so that has to be disappointing. I don’t buy into your theory on the 2015-2017 classes, though. Dawuane Smoot’s selection had less to do with Dante Fowler Jr. than trying to get young, disruptive depth on the line – and saying A.J. Cann and Cam Robinson are the same position is a stretch. Does the selection of Fournette reflect poorly on the selection of Yeldon? Yes, that argument can be made. Overall, I’d call it around a “C” with heavy lean toward incomplete.

Andy from St. Augustine, FL:
Stranded on an island with only one movie? Has to be Princess Bride – it has sword-fighting, pirates, a giant, a six fingered man, poisoning, rodents of unusual size and fire swamps – all wrapped around true love! Picking any other movie when stranded on an island would be … inconceivable!!

John: Not bad.

Mike from Navarre, OH:
How has Smoot been looking throughout rookie minicamp? Obviously it’s not a completely accurate representation with it being in “pajamas,” or even close to it, but I haven’t seen much about how he looks. What’s the word, O?

John: Jaguars rookie minicamp practices last weekend were closed to the media, as were Phase 2 offseason workouts this past week. Several organized team activities in the next three weeks will be open to the media, at which point I’ll be able to offer more of an idea about how players are looking.

Tom from Jacksonville:
What is your over and under on this? Albert comes in late, overweight and out of shape, gets hurt early, goes on injured reserve and collects $8 million while sitting on his fat ass. We’re Jaguars. It’s what we do. I’d bet the house.

John: I wouldn’t.

Logan from Wichita, KS:
Do you ever worry that posting our (the fans fanning to you daily; myself included sometimes) negative feelings has a negative effect on the team? Or do the players really never read the O-Zone?

John: I assume few players read the O-Zone, though I imagine some do on occasion. I further assume that those who do realize that fans are gonna fan.

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O-Zone: The bigger picture

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

Dallas from Jacksonville:
This is a yes-or-no question that you never have really clarified before. If Blake Bortles plays poorly this year, is his Jacksonville career over? I don’t want you to give a “maybe” or “depending-on-this” type of answer. Yes or no.

John: I actually have discussed this often, and who knows? I actually may have clarified it once or twice – though the clarifying likely came in moment(s) of weakness. Still, despite your demands, I will answer as I often try to answer: with context so as not to mislead. I assume by “poorly” you mean continuing to throw key interceptions and making other costly mistakes. If Bortles plays that way, then I believe – as I have written once (or twice) – he will have shown he’s not a franchise quarterback. I believe in that scenario he will not be the Jaguars’ quarterback in 2018.

Steve from Denver:
O, do you see a time in the future where instead of an offensive coordinator in the booth, teams will have AI set up where a computer person will put in down and distance and the computer will call in the play to the quarterback? Hey Siri, J.J. Watt is blowing up our left tackle, what play should we call?

John: No. I think teams will continue to implement more and more data, but I believe the league would prohibit such a computerized game-day influence. I might be wrong. I hope I’m not.

Chad from EverBank:
One of your peers made a comment that running backs basically get the shaft within the framework of the CBA due to their limited career span. It was projected that they often have one option, if that, for another contract. Why don’t running backs opt out of the draft, then sign with a team as an undrafted free agent? They’d be able to negotiate better first contracts versus having to wait out the first contract and/or hope for a new offer. Is this an option, or would the player be required to go through the draft process?

John: First off, I have no peers – only superiors. Second, players can’t “opt out” of the draft process. If they could, most players would do so. The only way a player can get out of the NFL Draft is to be in circumstances – i.e., a loss of eligibility after the regular draft – that allow entry into the supplemental draft. Even so, that’s not free agency because players in the supplemental draft are the NFL property of the team drafting them.

David from Elgin, Scotland:
OK, Mr. O: let’s get straight to it. Blake Bortles is the choice, and it was decided that there were no better options in either free agency or the draft, and he will be (barring injury) our starting quarterback for the upcoming campaign. Whether some of us agree or disagree with management’s decision is irrelevant now. Players thrive on confidence and it is up to true fans to show their full support of the team including our quarterback. Constant negativity will only result in continued losses. So what say you John? Can we have one for Blake (and a mighty big one at that) or shall we all continue to behave like Texans fans?

John: Hey, one fer Blake!

Dave from Los Angeles, CA:
Why are the rookie deals getting done so much quicker this year?

John: Rookie deals have been getting done shortly after the draft for the last few seasons – a result of the 2011 Collective Bargaining Agreement. The ’11 CBA established the rookie wage scale and created the current system of “slotted” contracts. This largely eliminated rookie holdouts and eliminated need long, drawn-out negotiations for rookie contracts. Finally.

Chris from Mandarin, FL:
Do you think Allen Robinson will have hooks for hands again this season, and do you think he will continue to be combative with Jaguars fans – or has he grown out of that?

John: I think Robinson had issues with drops at times last season, but I don’t think the issues were prominent in 2014 or 2015, so he’s not overly prone to drops. I’m not sure I can predict how Robinson will be with fans. I do think a lot of players were frustrated last season, and many situations weren’t handled ideally. I can say this: I think Robinson wants to win and wants to be really good. I also imagine there was a situation or two he would have handled differently last season. Will frustration set in again in the future? Will he handle things differently? I can’t really predict that.

Chris from Los Angeles, CA:
Yo, Johnny O, what do you know? You think they show, or do the players know what the media thinks of them as pros? You know how it goes, they point out all the lows, talk about errant throws and offensive woes. When they speak of the Jaguars, they got loads of jokes to the point it feels like an overdose. No respect, but I bet Coughlin checks to see what they say next because Coughlin often softens hard heads and according to the media, for hard heads, this is where it all ends. Do you think he gets pissed when he clicks on the tube to see yet another diss about this group? Do you think he shoots the players a DM after the weekend to say, “see what they say? They don’t think we can play!”. Does he burn on the inside to hear this guy talk crap and flip lies about an organization, with pride, he made known to the nation back in ’69…I mean ’96? Is this the year teams should fear any chalkboard material about the Jags? Does DM and TC turn on the TV in the locker room so the players can see what they say on TV about the way they’ve played in this league? Seriously tho, it’s bad. They went as far as to say everybody on the team is talented except for BB5. Ouch! Is this the year that they use this negative talk about our organization as fuel. I know it’s cliché to say they don’t pay attention what’s being said outside of the organization but I think this is the year they should have all the negative comments from analysts and fans and whoever, posted on the big flat screen in the locker room. How do you think DM and TC will get the players motivated to change our current national perception?

John: Can you repeat the question?

Scott from Chelsea, NY:
Between Sen’Derrick Marks, Roy Miller, Jared Odrick and Tyson Alualu, the Jaguars allowed four linemen to depart not that long ago that would have formed the core of a defensive-line unit. Goes to show you it’s very much a young man’s game. Credit for Caldwell and team to be willing to move on from former starters before they declined to a level that would hurt the team. Do you think DC will regret not keeping any of these four?

John: I have written before that I would have kept Alualu, primarily because of his durability. He never missed a game because of injury during his time with the Jaguars, and that’s a very difficult thing to do in seven NFL seasons as a defensive lineman. Marks, Miller and Odrick all have missed significant time with injuries in recent seasons, which was part of what made their releases make sense.

Nathan from Provo, Utah:
John, you’re stranded on an island. “Spies Like Us” or “Three Amigos?”

John: I honestly wouldn’t take either.

Miguel from Section 144 and Duuuuuuuvaaaaaal:
Hola, O-Zone! When Tom Coughlin was hired to coach the New York Giants, they had a running back by the name of Tiki Barber who was known as a fumbler. Coach got rid of that real quick and Tiki lost that reputation. Do you think there is something similar he can advise Coach Doug Marrone on to help Blake better protect the football?

John: I don’t know that Coughlin will be involved enough in the on-field coaching to have a direct influence in this area. I do know that the emphasis on protecting the football won’t end with Coughlin and will permeate through the entire organization. It eventually comes down to decision-making and understanding where to go with the pass and when. There’s no magic formula and there’s no way to eliminate all interceptions. But emphasis on the area and better understanding of the entire offense can help, and that’s certainly an offseason priority.

Jordan from Jacksonville:
If you were covering another NFL team, what team would you want to cover and why?

John: The question literally never has crossed my mind. There’s honestly no other team I desire to cover. If a situation arose and I did cover another team, I suppose I would adapt and do so.

John from Jacksonville:
I’m not going to ask you anymore questions. Your silent treatment has damaged my self-confidence beyond repair.

John: My silence shouldn’t be why you’re not confident.

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