Jaguars wrap up OTA's a day early

Head Coach Gus Bradley decided to cancel the final OTA of the offseason scheduled for Friday.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Apparently nine is enough for Gus Bradley and the Jaguars.

The head coach decided to cancel the final OTA of the offseason scheduled for Friday morning, meaning the Jaguars have four days off until they report back for mandatory mini-camp starting Tuesday, June 16th.

"I thought we had a great OTA session," Bradley said.  "I'm excited now, and I told them that.  I think we have a long ways to go, but their mentality, their attitude, how we practice day after day, there's a lot of things to be excited about."

One of the things that the coaching staff is most excited about is the progression of quarterback Blake Bortles.  Growing up an all-star in every sport that he played, confidence was never lacking in Bortles since an early age.  According to Bradley, it is that confidence that is growing the most during these OTA's.

"I think it is the confidence in his mechanics and the willingness to take more risks.  I think he is more confident having to do that and the team senses it so, he's not where he wants to be though.  I think the consistency part of it is still coming but we as a coaching staff and the players feel a big difference."

The team admits that you can only accomplish so much without pads and live hitting, so how important are these organized team activities?  According to some Jaguars, they are just as important off the field as they are on the field.

"With the rookies coming in, getting comfortable here is huge," said wide receiver Allen Hurns.  "Getting to know your teammates, creating that bond, that brotherhood is a big deal." 

Tight end Marcedes Lewis is entering his 10th season with the Jaguars and says that not only knowing the guy next to you, but knowing what the guy next to you can do is very important.  "You want to build that brotherhood and figure out who the man is next to you that you are playing with every Sunday.  It's been a great opportunity for everybody and I'm excited about what we have going," Lewis said.

After four days off, the Jaguars are back on the practice fields next Tuesday, June 16th. for three days of mandatory mini-camp.  The session on Thursday, June 18th is open to the public.  To attend the free practice, you have to register at Jaguars.com before you come out.