The Jacksonville Jaguars released their first injury report of the regular season Wednesday. Cornerback Montaric Brown, offensive guard Wyatt Milum, and swing tackle Cole Van Lanen popped up.
Their appearance on the report isn't particularly shocking when you take into account that all three missed time dating back to training camp. In fact, you could make the case that the omission of another Jaguar stood out more.
Tyson Campbell is trending toward being 100% for the Jaguars in Week 1
Cornerback Tyson Campbell sat out the preseason with an undisclosed injury, so it was a positive sign that he didn't pop up on Wednesday's report. Even better, he didn't show up on Thursdays, making it the second day in a row that he's been absent.
On the other hand, Wyatt Milum (knee), Montaric Brown (ankle), and Cole Van Lanen (shoulder) popped up again. At this point, it probably makes sense to let all three recover to ensure they're 100 percent healthy once they're back in the fold, so don't be shocked if all three are inactive for the Panthers game.
Circling back to Campbell, it looks like the Jags' decision to hold him out paid off, as it seems like he'll be at full strength for the opener. Having him around will be huge, as he's arguably the team's best cornerback. After all, the former Georgia Bulldog showed in 2022 that he's capable of playing at a top-10 level.
However, a hamstring injury hindered his performance significantly the past two years, though. Now, he needs to show that he can stay healthy in order to validate the extension he signed in 2024.
Having Tyson Campbell will give the Jaguars an edge vs. the Panthers
The Carolina Panthers will be without Jalen Coker for the opener, but they'll have Tetairoa McMillan, Xavier Legette, and Hunter Renfrow for the game. With Bryce Young expected to make a leap in Year 3, the Jaguars could have their hands full when they face their interconference foe. The good news is that they have the pieces to slow down the Carolina passing game.
Barring anything unexpected, Tyson Campbell will suit up and join a cornerback group that includes Jarrian Jones, Travis Hunter, and Jourdan Lewis. All four give Jacksonville a good matchup against the Panthers' receivers.
Of course, the pass rusher will also need to do their job, but at least on paper, this looks like a winnable game for the Jaguars.
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