5 takeaways from Jaguars win over Redskins

Grant's TD may have locked up roster spot

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – All week long Jaguars coach Gus Bradley played coy regarding the playing status of his starters for the fourth and final preseason game against the Washington Redskins.

In the end (as expected) none of the starters played. In fact Bradley had 33-guys sit this game out.  For the bottom third of the roster, there was plenty to play for Thursday night.

Boxscore | Recap 

Here are a couple of observations from the Jaguars 17-16 win over the Redskins:

Corey Grant vs. Storm Johnson:

We knew Corey Grant was fast. Bradley said he has 4.29 (forty-yard-dash) speed. We saw every bit of it on his 40-yard touchdown run. Grant made one cut and exploded to the end-zone. I feel that with that play he earned a spot on the 53-man roster. If he happens to get cut there's no question that another team will pick him up.

We know the Jaguars are keeping Denard Robinson, T.J. Yeldon, Toby Gerhart and likely Bernard Pierce at running back. Because they're going without a traditional full back they could carry five running backs. Grant brings an added dimension of speed that could also pay dividends in the return game and on special teams. Storm Johnson didn't help his case by dropping a ball in the flats that would've led to an easy first down.

Stephen Morris in the spotlight:

When Sam Kouvaris asked Bradley would we see Chad Henne against the Redskins, Bradley responded "I sure hope not." That left the game in the hands of second-year quarterback Stephen Morris. In his most extensive action this preseason, the former Miami Hurricane was solid. He completed 16 of his 25 passes for 160 yards and a touchdown. His numbers could've been better if not for a couple of drops.

James Sample worth the wait:

Sergio Brown will likely be the Jaguars opening day free safety against the Carolina Panthers. How long he holds on to that position has everything to do with James Sample. We got our first real look at the rookie safety against the Redskins. At 6'2", 209 pounds the former Louisville product has the physical attributes to be a starter in this league. He showed great closing speed on a tackle near the sideline. Also great coverage on a deep ball intended for Redskins receiver Rashad Ross.

All eyes on Jason Myers: 

As the new Jaguars kicker there was special attention being paid to Jason Myers. He missed a 56-yard field goal in the first half. The kick had plenty of leg but was wide right. 56-yards isn't exactly a chip shot. He got another chance in the fourth quarter and calmly nailed a 47-yard field goal.

Battle for the 5th receiver spot:

Allen Robinson, Allen Hurns, Rashad Greene and Marqise Lee (injured), were all in street clothes against the Redskins. With Arrelious Been on IR the battle for the final receiver spot likely comes down to Bryan Walters or Tony Washington. Washington nearly dropped a wide open 40-yard reception from Morris. That catch led to Grant's touchdown run. Walters finished with 42 yards on five catches, including a 5-yard touchdown reception. The person who earns this job will do so thanks to their special teams contributions.