What did Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen reveal on Thursday about facing the Detroit Lions?
Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen addressed the media on Thursday, and we covered the entire session.
To view his interview, refer to the link above.
Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson also spoke on Monday. Here’s a transcript of his remarks:
Q: Updates on QB Trevor Lawrence’s injury?
Pederson: “It’s uncertain for now. We still have a couple of days, and I don’t have definite answers yet.”
Q: Status of OL Ezra Cleveland’s injury?
Pederson: “As of now, he’s resting it. He should participate in practice soon and might take some snaps. We’ll evaluate.”
Q: Any new injuries after Sunday’s game vs. Minnesota?
Pederson: “No significant injuries, just some bumps. Tank [RB Tank Bigsby] was briefly hobbled, but it’s nothing serious.”
Q: Will Lawrence need surgery?
Pederson: “Surgery hasn’t been discussed, so I’m not sure where that talk is coming from.”
Q: Could QB C.J. Beathard’s workload increase this week?
Pederson: “Possibly. C.J. prepares as if he’ll play, but I can’t decide until we know more about Trevor.”
Q: Will it be easier for Beathard to adapt since he knows the playbook?
Pederson: “Even though he knows the system, he hasn’t been as active since training camp. We’d need to give him reps.”
Q: Assessment of QB Mac Jones’s recent performance?
Pederson: “He started well but faced protection issues and made some mistakes. The turnovers and fumble hurt us. If he plays this week, I expect improvement.”
Q: On pass protection struggles against Minnesota?
Pederson: “It was a mix of factors. Minnesota’s style—sending six or seven rushers—created challenges.”
Q: Maintaining team morale?
Pederson: “We focus on the opportunities ahead. The team doesn’t quit, and they battled hard, even late into the game.”
Q: Does the team need near-perfection to succeed?
Pederson: “At times, it feels that way. Mistakes happen, but too many are hard to overcome, like penalties or turnovers.”
Q: Is it frustrating to play well late in the season but fall short compared to 2022?
Pederson: “Yes, some preparation doesn’t fully translate to games. It’s frustrating for everyone, including coaches.”
Q: Specific areas where preparation isn’t carrying over?
Pederson: “It could be gaps, protection issues, or a QB decision. The fast pace of games exposes those errors.”
Q: Did QB Mac Jones face contact during his second interception?
Pederson: “It appeared he was bumped, impacting the throw’s trajectory.”
Q: Thoughts on the cornerbacks’ performance vs. Minnesota WRs?
Pederson: “The corners played exceptionally well, tackling and covering physical receivers like Jefferson and Addison.”
Q: Impressions of DE Josh Hines-Allen’s recent play?
Pederson: “Our defense is improving. Josh and others are embracing coaching, showing better technique and trust.”
Q: Optimism for the remainder of the season?
Pederson: “Absolutely. Despite setbacks, our goals are within reach. The team is committed and continues to work hard.”
Q: What can Lawrence learn from watching games?
Pederson: “He stayed engaged, helping Mac on the sideline. It gave him a fresh perspective.”
Q: Can those observations help Lawrence on the field?
Pederson: “Yes, it builds memory and trust in making decisions under pressure.”
Q: Evaluating OL Walker Little and Anton Harrison?
Pederson: “Both have been solid overall, though they had a few plays they’d like to improve. They’re physical, smart, and consistent.”
