The Jaguars have officially signed former University of Miami guard Brandon Linder.
Guard Brandon Linder signing rookie contract with Jaguars now pic.twitter.com/MMF6nBZKSZ
— John Oehser (@JohnOehser) June 9, 2014
At 6'6, 311 pounds, Linder is a very large guard prospect, who is built well to deal with NFL defensive lineman. Linder's main knock is that he lacks athleticism, but his strength, size, and familiarity with Jaguars offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch (who coached Linder before coming to Jacksonville) will help make his transition to the NFL smooth.
Jacksonville obviously coveted Linder during the 2014 NFL Draft, trading up from pick No. 105 to acquire the No. 93 selection in the 2014 NFL Draft. The move addresses the Jaguars' serious need along the interior of the offensive line, giving the Jaguars a player to pair with Zane Beadles at guard.
With Brad Meester's retirement and the team releasing interior linemen Uche Nwaneri and Will Rackley, there are some gaps on the Jaguars offensive line. However, given Linder's track record and the fact that the Jaguars spent two draft picks on him, the former Miami player should be the starter for Week 1.