JACKSONVILLE – Shad Khan likes what he sees from the preseason thus far.
Khan, entering his fourth season as the Jaguars' owner, spoke to the media following the franchise's annual Back to Football luncheon at EverBank Field on Tuesday. As he did, he expressed optimism about the coming season.
A primary reason: quarterback.
Second-year quarterback Blake Bortles, the No. 3 overall selection in the 2014 NFL Draft, has shown significant improvement during the preseason. That has many Jaguars fans optimistic about the short- and long-term future, and Khan on Tuesday expressed optimism, too.
"Probably the most important thing a team can have is quarterback play, and we see something that can sustain us," Khan said.
Khan cited not only Bortles as a reason for optimism, but the play of the offensive line. The first-team unit has shown improvement this preseason after the offense allowed 71 sacks last season. The Jaguars in the offseason not only added right tackle Jermey Parnell and center Stefen Wisniewski as free agents, but former Buffalo Bills Head Coach Doug Marrone as offensive line coach.
"We have great talent in coaching as well as now on the field," Khan said.
Khan also on Tuesday was asked how he would evaluate Head Coach Gus Bradley and General Manager David Caldwell as they enter their third season working together. The Jaguars have a 7-25 record over the past two seasons, but Khan said the team appears markedly improved.
"I think (you evaluate by asking) are we better than two years ago?" Khan said. "I think unquestionably we're better than we were two years ago."
