The Jacksonville Jaguars released their final injury report for Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Bucs and it appears the defense could be in for a long day. Linebacker Myles Jack (knee) and cornerback Tre Herndon (shoulder) were ruled questionable while safety Ronnie Harrison was ruled out with a concussion. Simply put, if both questionable players aren’t able to participate in Sunday’s game, fans should expect Jameis Winston and his fourth ranked passing offense to put up solid stats, making a win for the Jags significantly harder than expected.
If Jack doesn’t play it appears Donald Payne will get the nod in his spot. While Payne is familiar with the system and has spent time with the Jags, there certainly will be a drop-off with him on the field as the MIKE linebacker spot has proven to be an adjustment for even Jack. It wouldn’t be the slightest bit surprising if Bruce Arians schemed up some concepts to take advantage of Payne’s inexperience in the interior, so the Jags’ pass rush will need to have a huge day if the team is to have a chance.
As for Herndon’s spot, it will likely be manned by Breon Borders, who has one career start to his name. That puts the Jags at a huge disadvantage because the Bucs have a dynamic duo at receiver in Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, both of whom have over 1,000 yards receiving this year. Both have had multiple games where they were able to accumulate over 170 receiving yards and Sunday’s game may have a similar result because of Border’s lack of experience and the play-making abilities of Godwin and Evans.
Lastly, Andrew Wingard will get the nod in Harrison’s place. He struggled in Week 12’s game when replacing Harrison but managed to accumulate five tackles. However, with a week to prepare and see snaps with the starters, fans will have to hope his play tightens up as the Jags are looking to snap a three-game losing streak.