Big question facing Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars' WR room in training camp
· Yahoo Sports
With training camp drawing closer, we will be highlighting the one big question that faces each of the Jacksonville Jaguars' position groups.
Next up is the wide receiver position, where many eyes will be on Brian Thomas Jr. and whether or not he can bounce back.
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So, naturally, that is where our focus will be for this article.
Can Jaguars' WR Brian Thomas Jr. bounce back in Year 2 under Liam Coen?
As a rookie, Thomas totaled nearly 1,300 receiving yards on 87 receptions. This past year, however, he hauled in only 707 receiving yards on 72 catches. Missed time contributed to Thomas Jr.'s dip in production, but even on a per-route basis, his efficiency fell.
But to answer the above question, while there is still a long ways to go, the early answer appears to be, "yes."
ESPN's Michael DiRocco called Thomas Jr. the "most impressive offensive player" during offseason programs, with he and Trevor Lawrence routinely connecting on downfield throws.
An emphasis this offseason for Lawrence and Thomas Jr. was on building their chemistry, and that appears to be taking place.
SI's Albert Breer also noted that Thomas Jr. has been fully healthy this offseason as well.
With the addition of Jakobi Meyers at last year's trade deadline, that freed up Thomas Jr. to be utilized more as a vertical threat, rather than being tasked with taking on some of the over-the-middle and intermediate routes.
While he will still be expected to impact each level of the field, he can thrive as a steady downfield threat.
A resurgent season from Thomas Jr. will not only lead to more production in the passing game and explosive plays generated, but with the attention he can command from opposing defenders, that will also help create opportunities for other Jaguars' pass-catchers.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Big question facing Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars' WR room in training camp