As the Jaguars wrap up Week 2 of training camp and prepare to face the Kansas City Chiefs in their first preseason game, head coach Doug Pederson announced that offensive coordinator Press Taylor will handle the play-calling duties for the preseason.
Taylor also plans to call plays from the sideline instead of the booth for the game.
"Well, one, you get to feel the game. Two, you're with the players. And three, you get to make the corrections right away, communication-wise. You feel connected to the football game a little bit more. Early in my career, I was in the box as well, and you're kind of removed, and it's a little more challenging up there," Pederson said.
Pederson also noted that the decision about play-calling for the regular season is still in progress.
Notable players who will miss the first preseason game include OL Anton Harrison (concussion), OL Ezra Cleveland (heel), S Andrew Wingard (knee), S Darnell Savage (shoulder), and DL Arik Armstead (knee).
Pederson said the plan is for the starters to begin the game, with their number of reps remaining fluid.
As for the quarterbacks, Trevor Lawrence will play the first quarter, C.J. Beathard will play the second quarter, and Mac Jones will take over in the second half.
"I think it's important that these guys play, especially early. It doesn't have to be a lot or a long time, but you want them to get out there and knock that rust off, get that game feel, play against starters, and go execute. Like I said, it's not long, but it's good for those guys to get out there and do that," Pederson said.
Even though it is a preseason game, Lawrence is excited to take on the reigning back-to-back Super Bowl champions.
"Preseason game or whatever, you still want to win, and it's a good challenge for us. They're going to play their guys too, so it'll be a good challenge for us to see how we stack up early. Obviously, this is Preseason 1, and there's a long way to go before Week 1, but I think it is important to test yourself and see how you look against a team that has been the standard the past few years. We shouldn't take it lightly," Lawrence said.
Kickoff between the Jaguars and Chiefs for the first preseason game is set for Saturday, Aug. 10, at 7 p.m. at EverBank Stadium.