The Jaguars have the most interesting training camp battle, relating to the team’s starting quarterback, and that’s not something we’ve ever said before.
But the Jaguars are suddenly relevant, having selected Trevor Lawrence with the first overall pick in the draft. On the other hand, veteran quarterback Gardner Minshew has been the team’s best option since his rookie season, as he’s provided a spark that no other signal-caller could bring to the table.
And Minshew has always been well-liked by his teammates, with a larger-than-life personality. It’s likely that the locker room would favor having Minshew start the season, although Lawrence would be waiting in the wings, should he falter.
But there’s a possibility that Lawrence could start under center in Week 1, according to new head coach Urban Meyer’s recent comments.
“Is there really a chance? I think we’ll answer that as we get closer,” Meyer said, via NFL.com.
He continued:
“He’s earned my respect. I love that guy,” Meyer said of Minshew. “He’s a warrior, competitor. He’s a fighter. I told him that. I just got great respect for Minshew. He brings it every day, every day.”
At this point, it sure looks like the starting job is up for grabs. Starting Minshew in Week 1 makes the most sense, though, similar to the situation involving Jimmy Garoppolo in San Francisco. However, we won’t be surprised if Lawrence is starting by the midseason mark. It’s just too attractive to have a player of that caliber on a rookie deal, gaining valuable game experience.
