Jaguars vs. Dolphins: 5 Players to Watch

Which Jaguars will have the spotlight on them in the final preseason game of the season?

The last week of the 2023 NFL preseason is among us and it is likely the most important. Most team’s starters will see the most amount of playing time this weekend. It also happens to be the last opportunity for many players to make their case for a roster spot.

Tonight, the Jacksonville Jaguars welcome their in-state rival the Miami Dolphins in what will be the Jaguars’ first home game of the year. The game should give both team’s a much better idea of where their roster’s stand as both teams walk into the 2023 season with playoff aspirations.

As far as preseason goes, this game is as important as it gets. With that said, here are five players to watch for the Jaguars’ final preseason game.

Cam Robinson

Cam Robinson has certainly had an underwhelming preseason as the Jaguars’ long-term starter at left tackle has struggled through the first two games. While he has been playing at left tackle, Walker Little has seen playing time at left guard. After this weekend, however, Robinson will begin a four-game suspension for his illegal performance-enhancing drug use.

It will be the last chance for Robinson to get live game experience prior to his suspension. As he has struggled this preseason, it will be key for Robinson to improve his play. It will be the last time fans see No.74 for a month. While Robinson has seen his fair share of criticism for his play, he’s been a solid, reliable option on the team’s blindside. Hopefully he can get back to being that solid blocker for the team.

Jeremiah Ledbetter

The star of the preseason, Ledbetter has played like a man amongst boys this preseason, earning himself the title of the team’s highest graded player according to Pro Football Focus. With injuries on the defensive line, namely to DaVon Hamilton and Foley Fatukasi, Ledbetter will get his first opportunity to be a starter against the Dolphins.

There is some uncertainty surrounding Hamilton’s back injury so Ledbetter could very well be named the starter week one for the Jaguars. He also should see some playing time against Miami’s starting offensive line. It will be a great test for Ledbetter and the future of the team’s defensive line this season.

Ventrell Miller

Ventrell Miller is in a tough spot on the Jaguars’ roster as the team is in really good shape at the linebacker position. Chad Muma and Devin Lloyd are entering their 2nd year in the league, joined by Foye Oluokun, the team’s trio is among the league’s most talented bunch.

While playing through injuries, Miller has still made several impact plays this preseason, collecting four tackles and two sacks against the Lions and Cowboys. With his special teams play and leadership abilities, Miller has the chance against the Dolphins to hopefully secure a spot on the roster for himself.

Elijah Cooks

As we near cut day, Elijah Cooks’ spot on the roster is looking more and more secure as the team’s 6th receiver. With stiff competition from guys like Jacob Harris, Tim Jones, and Seth Williams, Cooks has separated himself from the pack hauling in four balls for 111 yards. He’s also averaging 15.3 yards after the catch per reception, an impressive feat for his 6-foot-4 frame.

If Cooks can yet again have a standout game, he will surely put himself in a favorable spot to make the team. His size profile gives him something the team lacks at receiver and his ability to make plays has been on display all preseason. Look for him to make another case for himself against Miami.

Tre Herndon

The rise of Gregory Junior has certainly put pressure on the Jaguars’ incumbent nickel corner, making play after play this preseason. Junior has been involved on three Jacksonville turnovers this preseason and has been extra sticky as well. He’s been solid this preseason but has yet to have a statement game.

Against a FAST Dolphins’ receiving corps, highlighted by Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, Herdon could have the opportunity to prove himself against some of the league’s best receivers and quiet the noise surrounding the starting nickel corner job. He might need to do just that if he is to hold off the young guns.