"NFL Total Access" has launched its "32 in 32" series, breaking down the biggest subplots of every NFL team as the 2013 season approaches. Around The League will follow along and offer our own take. Up next: The Jacksonville Jaguars.
- The Minnesota Vikings had three first-round picks in the 2013 NFL Draft, but the Jaguars are the best bet to lead the league in snaps played by the rookie class. No. 2 overall pick Luke Joeckel is entrenched at right tackle, safety Jonathan Cyprien (No. 33 overall) could be the team's best defensive player by the end of the season and third-round pick Dwayne Gratz is penciled in as a starting cornerback. The coaching staff also is talking up significant roles for wild card Denard Robinson (fifth round), dynamic kick returner/slot receiver Ace Sanders (fourth round) and cornerback Demetrius McCray (seventh round).
- David Caldwell and Gus Bradley were stuck with the weakest roster in the NFL when they accepted the Jaguars' general manager and head coaching jobs, respectively. Although they landed an impressive draft haul, it's evident that their first season will be a wash. They conceded as much when they made no effort to upgrade on the highly dubious duo of Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne at quarterback.
- Don't be surprised if Cecil Shorts is the latest in a long line of wide receivers to reach full-blown stardom after participating in Larry Fitzgerald's summer camp next month. Shorts has been a standout in offseason practices after averaging 87 yards per game in the second half of last season. Shorts' 1.47 yards per snap exceeded the 2012 averages of Andre Johnson, A.J. Green, Dez Bryant and Julio Jones.
- Gregg Rosenthal pointed out the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive depth earlier this week. The Jaguars are at the opposite end of the spectrum. Justin Blackmon is suspended for four games, Shorts is now a concussion risk and Maurice Jones-Drew is coming off a dreaded Lisfranc injury. The depth chart behind those three offensive stars is bleak.
Our takeway: The Jaguars might be another two or three years from contending, but they finally have the right leadership in place, from owner Shad Khan down to Caldwell and Bradley.
Follow Chris Wesseling on Twitter @ChrisWesseling.
