Jaguars NFL Roster Cuts: Could Zach Potter Push?

While I was creating my early 53 man roster, I thought about cutting Ernest Wilford for Zach Potter. I decided to go with Ernest Wilford, but as we get closer to the final pre-season game I keep feeling that Zach Potter is going to do something to make Wilford expendable.

Wilford has had a fantastic training camp, but has kind of disappeared in the pre-season games.

Jaguars.com senior editor Vic Ketchman recently wrote a piece on Zach Potter than renewed my belief he's going to push hard for a roster position.

For those who don't know, Potter played defensive end at Nebraska. He's a mammoth tight end, in the mold of Marcedes Lewis. For now, Potter is considered a blocking tight end but has made strides in the passing game.

"The blocking tight end is a dying breed in the NFL. He knows his future is more at the tight end position than it ever would’ve been at the defensive end position. I saw a guy with a big frame that could block defensive ends. He embraced the role when given the opportunity to do so," Gene Smith told Ketchman.

The fact that Potter is such a good blocker strengthens his chance to make the final 53. The other tight ends, Zach Miller and Wilford, are primarily pass catching tight ends. Wilford is adequate blocking in the open field, but on the line he still struggles. Potter on the other hand can block on the line and also in the open field, he just lacks a bit in the passing game. Currently Marcedes Lewis is the only tight end on the roster who really doesn't tip the offenses hand on if it's running or passing, everyone else does. Potter has the potential to offer that same versatility.

Potter spent last season on the Jaguars practice squad after being released by the Jets as a defensive end. Potter was called into action last season in Cleveland against the Browns while Marcedes Lewis was out with a broken face. Potter ended the day with only 1 reception for 3 yards, but he got the start and played well in his role. With a full season and off-season under his belt with the Jaguars, it's very possible he's evolved enough to make a fight for that roster position.