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Trevor Lawrence Praises Jaguars’ Rookie WR Josh Cameron
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- Trevor Lawrence Praises Jaguars’ Rookie WR Josh Cameron
(USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect)
It hasn't taken long for rookie wide receiver Josh Cameron to carve out a meaningful role with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Drafted in the sixth round out of Baylor, the Jaguars believed they were getting a steal in Cameron. Jacksonville already had a loaded WR room with Brian Thomas Jr., Jakobi Meyers, and Parker Washington, and still planned on using Travis Hunter at WR occasionally, but thought Cameron was too good, and too good a value, to pass on.
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Cameron immediately started to make a name for himself with his new team. He was very impressive throughout the offseason. It became clear very early that Cameron was a lock to make the team, despite fierce competition at the position.
The only question was whether or not Cameron would be able to earn any actual playing time once the real games began.
Cameron would answer that question immediately, and it wouldn't take long for the rookie to make his mark.
In the Jaguars' season-opening 34-10 destruction of the Cleveland Browns , Cameron was one of four different players to catch a touchdown pass from quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
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It was a highlight-reel play , as Lawrence threw a bullet that threaded the needle through multiple defenders, finding its way to Cameron, who showed off his strong hands to make the grab.
The TD pass was the 100th of Lawrence's career, who made sure the rookie was the one who got to keep the ball. Lawrence joked that not keeping his 100th TD ball was extra motivation to get to 200.
Though his receiving stats are modest through four games, Cameron has continued to show his worth to the Jaguars.
He has five catches for 74 yards and two TDs so far. In Jacksonville's hard-fought road win over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 4, Cameron played a huge part, catching two passes for 42 yards, while also drawing a huge pass interference penalty. Without his contributions, the Jaguars may not have pulled out the nail-biting victory.
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He has also developed into an excellent blocker and has become a staple of all phases of Jacksonville's special teams.
Cameron has returned seven kickoffs for 181 yards (25.8 avg), has several special team tackles, and is the personal protector for the punt team.
Lawrence has been impressed with the 23-year-old rookie, especially the effort Cameron brings on every one of his snaps, no matter what his assignment is.
Speaking to the media , Lawrence heaped praises on the young WR.
"Every route, you know he's running it to win. Every time he has a chance to block someone, he's trying to put them in the ground."
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Final Thoughts
Cameron is doing exactly what a young rookie needs to do to make an impression.
He gives his all on every play, contributes on special teams, and comes through whenever his number is called on offense.
Even in an offense loaded with offensive weapons, Cameron has made it clear that he has a bright future with the Jaguars.
It wouldn't be surprising to see his role on offense continue to grow as the season progresses. With an MVP-caliber QB publicly praising him, Cameron has proven his value to the team and has been a big part of Jacksonville's early success.
