As Jacksonville right guard Brandon Linder enters his second season with the Jaguars, the team believes they've found something special in the 2014 third-round pick.
"I would think that he is better than what we thought,” head coach Gus Bradley said, via Vito Stellino of the Florida-Times Union. “We knew he was pretty good, but we’re very pleased with him.”
This season, the Jaguars will pair Linder with free-agent right tackle Jermey Parnell in an effort to improve an offensive line that gave up 71 sacks last year.
“He’s got good power,” offensive coordinator Greg Olson said. “He’s one of the more powerful guys we have up front. He and Parnell complement each other very well because of their strength and power. He’s just a real intelligent hard worker. He’s becoming more of a vocal leader, and we like that as well. He did a good job in the offseason, and he’s looked good here these first three days.”
Bradley praised the the 23-year-old Linder for his emerging leadership as well.
“He doesn’t have a lot of words, but the guys really follow him,” Bradley said. “I think the guys really respect his work ethic and how he goes about it. I would say that what people would say first of all he’s really good and second of all is his toughness.”
Jacksonville's other starting guard, Zane Beadles, said Linder is poised for a big year.
He’s had a great offseason,” Beadles said. “I think he’s definitely improved. He’s a strong, smart guy and moves well. I expect him to make a big jump this year. He understands the game. I’m so happy for him with the way he’s playing so far and how he’s improved.”
(h/t Florida Times-Union)
