Jaguars’ free agent additions make early impression vs. Browns

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jaguars spent more money in free agency this offseason than any team in NFL history ever has. They are looking for a good return on their investment and Friday’s preseason matchup with the Cleveland Browns offered a first look at several new additions.

With most starters sitting out the Hall of Fame game in Canton, Doug Pederson and his staff got their first look at some key additions on Friday. Here is a closer look at the free agent addition’s contributions:

Zay Jones – The wide receiver stood out in practice last week and he carried it over to the field. Jones caught a 32-yard pass from Trevor Lawrence on the Jaguars’ first offensive snap, then later hauled in a 15-yard completion near the sideline. He finished the game with two catches on four targets and 47 yards receiving in just over a quarter of play.

After the game, Jones said he was pleased, but not satisfied with the start of his Jaguars career.

“To feel the energy from the team and the crowd, that was pretty cool,” Jones said. “But it’s a long process. I’m not going to dwell on it too long. We know that ultimately, it’s the preseason. We need to get better.”

Evan Engram – The former New York Giants’ tight end was targeted twice on Friday night, catching a short pass on fourth and two from the Browns’ nine-yard line and taking it in for the Jaguars’ first touchdown.

Brandon Scherff - Scherff started at right tackle and helped the Jaguars offense to three scores in three possessions. He opened a big hole for Travis Etienne on a 12-yard run in the first quarter.

Foye Oluokun – Oluokun make his Jaguars debut but did not record a tackle. He was in coverage on an incomplete pass in the first quarter. Oluokun led the NFL in tackles last season with the Atlanta Falcons.

“I told my parents I was nervous going out to make a good impression for my teammates and the organization,” Oluokun said. “I think our energy was great to start the game. We were in our fits getting to the ball. I love the way we started the game. Obviously, we have to keep our energy up throughout the game.”

Foley Fatukasi – The defensive tackle started for the Jaguars but saw only four snaps. On the second snap of the game, he pushed the Cleveland offensive lineman back into the lap of quarterback DeShaun Watson, resulting in an incompletion. On the next drive, he won his battle with the Cleveland offensive lineman and helped to create a pile that resulted in a run for no gain by Browns running back D’Ernest Johnson. He did well in his limited opportunities.

Still to be seen:

Christian Kirk – Kirk was held out of Friday night’s game after a minor ankle injury sustained in training camp. He has not yet made his Jaguars debut. After the game, Doug Pederson said that if it were a regular season game, Kirk would have played. He’ll likely make his Jaguars debut against the Steelers.

Darious Williams – Williams, the Creekside alum, was anxiously looking forward to his first game in a Jaguars uniform. He’ll have to wait. The cornerback will have to wait a little longer. He was in a non-contact jersey during the week leading up to the game.