(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
The Jacksonville Jaguars emerged as a rising power late in the 2022 season, but they were unable to build on that success last year.
This year, they’re flying under the radar in the ultra-competitive AFC, but they’re hoping to return to the playoffs this winter.
If they are to accomplish that goal, they will need to find a legitimate No. 1 threat at the wide receiver position, and perhaps rookie Brian Thomas Jr. has a chance to develop into that type of playmaker.
Thomas had a nifty 38-yard reception in Friday’s preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons, and former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III took to Twitter to let fans know about his potential.
Brian Thomas Jr. is SOO MUCH MORE than just deep threat. He has shown off his underappreciated route running all training camp and preseason. He isn’t just a fast guy who can get open. His ability to know WHEN HE IS OPEN is special. You got one Jags fans.
pic.twitter.com/KBiKWrG36m
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) August 24, 2024
Thomas played his college ball at Louisiana State University where he benefitted from the presence of quarterback Jayden Daniels, last year’s Heisman Trophy winner.
The 21-year-old had 68 catches for 1,177 yards and an NCAA FBS-high 17 receiving touchdowns last season while earning second-team All-SEC honors.
The Jaguars have lacked a legitimate alpha wideout for some time, and they suffered a big blow this offseason when Clavin Ridley, who led them in receiving yards and touchdowns in 2023, left in free agency.
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence had a sensational close to the 2022 campaign, but he saw somewhat of a dip in his production last season, especially when it came to ball security, as he had six more interceptions than he did in 2022.
He recently agreed to a five-year, $275 million extension, and it is time for him to prove he is worth all that money, something Thomas could possibly greatly help with.
The post Robert Griffin III Praises ‘Underappreciated’ Jaguars Rookie appeared first on The Cold Wire.