Jaguars’ snap counts from preseason loss to the New Orleans Saints

Here’s what we can learn from Jacksonville’s snap counts against the Saints.

The Jacksonville Jaguars struggled once again in their second preseason outing against the New Orleans Saints, taking a 23-21 loss in a game that was made closer by a late surge from the Jaguars’ offense. We got an extended look at first-overall pick Trevor Lawrence, who played the entire first half, but he wasn’t able to do much behind an offensive line that was missing three starters.

Though the starters got more looks than in the first game, we also got to see a lot of depth players in action. Here’s what we can learn from the offensive, defensive, and special teams snap counts from the game, which were compiled by NFLGSIS.com.

Offense

Analysis

  • As you can see, the Jaguars’ backup offensive line got a lot of work, and the results weren’t exactly pretty. Walker Little made the start in place of an injured Cam Robinson, but he didn’t fare well against the Saints’ first-team.
  • Quarterbacks Trevor Lawrence and Gardner Minshew II saw almost equal snaps, giving some credence to the idea that the competition is still ongoing, though Minshew didn’t work with the ones. C.J. Beathard was only on the field for 18% of the snaps, but he continues to impress. He led two late touchdown drives.
  • Pharoh Cooper, Phillip Dorsett II, and Laquon Treadwell led the way for receivers. It’s unlikely all three make the roster, but they’re getting the chances. Tavon Austin was very productive once again on just 27% of snaps, and he’s outperforming his playing time.
  • Nathan Cottrell and Devine Ozigbo saw the most reps among running backs, but the Jags didn’t have much success at all on the ground. Travis Etienne left with an injury, limiting his involvement.

Defense

Analysis

  • Tyson Campbell saw the most reps of any cornerback, but he gave up the opening-drive touchdown. C.J. Henderson also saw a lot of playing time, and he looks like the best defensive back right now.
  • DE Dawuane Smoot had another impressive game. The Jaguars have been waiting for him to make an impact, and he sacked Taysom Hill.
  • The Jaguars seem to like second-year linebacker Shaquille Quarterman, who led the team in tackles against the Saints. He should see more reps this season after the Joe Schobert trade.
  • DT Taven Bryan was on the field for nearly half of all defensive snaps, but his only impact was a hit on the quarterback. His future with the team continues to look bleak.