Doug Pederson: Jaguars’ Rookie Anton Harrison Could Play ‘A Touch Longer’ Than Other Starters

Anton Harrison is healthy and ready to go Saturday as he is set to see his first NFL action against the Dallas Cowboys.

The Jaguars selected Harrison with the 27th pick, identifying the Oklahoma tackle as their target in the first round. Unfortunately, he missed some time earlier in training camp, plagued by a nagging shoulder injury.

It sounds like that injury is now fully behind him as Harrison says he looks forward to his first snaps as an NFL tackle.

“I’m all good, I’m just ready to play Saturday," Harrison said.

“He’s doing well, he’s progressing really well. He’ll be fine for Saturday baring any setbacks in the next couple of days," Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson said on Wednesday. "We anticipate him playing, even maybe a touch longer. It’s his first NFL game so maybe we see him in there a series or two after the ones come out.”

Harrison went on to add, “I’m looking forward to it a lot, to get the game plan against another opponent, go against new guys that aren’t your own teammates when you can really just let it all loose. I’m excited to go out.”

The Jaguars identified the tackle position as an area for need after losing last season’s right tackle Jawaan Taylor to free agency, signing a four-year deal worth $80 million with the Kansas City Chiefs.

While Walker Little has certainly impressed during his time on the field, the depth at the position was concerning. The Jaguars front office also kept the looming four-game suspension of Cam Robinson in mind when considering the team’s draft needs.

The Jaguars’ coaching staff seems impressed with Harrison’s play and approach to the game throughout camp.

“He’s done a nice job. He’s continuing to improve and grow. I think the college game to the NFL game is different so he’s learning a few different techniques that Phil [Offensive Line Coach Phil Rauscher] is teaching him. He’s getting some quality work out there. He’s done a nice job, he’s improving, and looking forward to watching him play.“ Pederson said on Wednesday.

Harrison, a four-star recruit out of Washington D.C., committed to the Oklahoma Sooners, a school that has had some recent success producing NFL offensive linemen. While at Oklahoma, Harrison made an instant impact, playing in 34 games and making 24 starts in three seasons. One of those 24 starts came at right tackle, a shift the Jaguars’ staff hopes Harrison can make in the NFL.

A member of the 2022 All-Big 12 First Team, the Sooner’s blind side allowed just one sack and no QB hits on 447 pass-blocking opportunities according to PFF. It was this level of success that led to his consideration in the first round and eventual drafting by the Jaguars.

With his game experience at right tackle and collegiate pass blocking efficiency, the Jaguars look forward to seeing Harrison’s game translate to the professional level. He will have his hands full this Saturday as he will play some with the starters and beyond.

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