Jacksonville Jaguars coach Mike Mularkey says LB Kyle Bosworth to start for Daryl Smith – NFL News
Jacksonville Jaguars coach Mike Mularkey has confirmed that linebacker Daryl Smith has suffered a setback to recovery from a groin problem and will be out of the side for Sunday’s season opener against the Minnesota Vikings.
A day earlier, doubts emerged about availability of the LB for the next game after he missed the team practice, which later the coach confirmed to be true. According to the official, Daryl had suffered the setback earlier in the week and rehab from it was
impossible timely enough to make himself available for the weekend game.
Daryl suffered the injury earlier in the season and recently had returned to practice. It is unfortunate his return has been delayed as a result of the setback.
Mularkey said that they are likely to start with LB Kyle Bosworth at Daryl’s place in the next game. The coach said:
"(Bosworth) has gotten a lot of work in the preseason games. We feel confident about him going in there."
Meanwhile, the team do not expect back Derek Cox for the weekend game but rookie receiver Justin Blackmon who suffered an ankle injury earlier in the week is very much likely in the squad against the Vikings.
Justin’s return is particularly good news for the team as the coach said he expects him to be a crucial part of the offensive scheme. He has proved his credentials being a highly capable player of penetrating through any defence in the league.
Some commentators have rated Blackmon assuming a greater responsibility on the offensive line, and his performance is most likely to make up for any loss in form of fumbles and below-the-mark performance by second-year quarterback Blaine Gabbert.
Blackmon has earned praise from the coach for his outstanding form as a rookie in the preseason phase and the official is optimistic of him performing even better the regular season.
A win over the Vikings can be on the Jaguars way if players like Blackmon find their potential form. Blackmon’s performance has boosted confidence of Blaine as well and he is as keener to perform better in the game as the receiver himself.
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