3 under-the-radar players have Liam Coen's attention in Jaguars' minicamp

Following Tuesday’s first minicamp practice, head coach Liam Coen was very complimentary of three of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ young players on the team.

Although what happens in minicamp won’t determine roster spots or playing time, this time of the year does provide us with some insight into where things stand and it lays the foundation for training camp.

What Coen said: “Branson’s a guy obviously that we had a lot of like for last year. He was close to getting claimed. We ended up putting him on the active roster and he may win the Iron Jag of the Year at this pace. I know he’s leading the group right now, leading the team in the individual award. Just low-key, he’s pretty athletic, like he’s explosive. He can do multiple different things in terms of coverage abilities, whether it’s in man or zone. I like him in coverage. I think he’s done a nice job with Foye not getting as many reps in some of the team settings with he and Jack having to get more of those. So being able to communicate at a high level is what he’s needed those reps.”

Takeaway: A UDFA from the 2025 NFL draft, Combs began last season on the practice squad before emerging as a special teams contributor. It also sounds like defensively he is handling the MIKE linebacker responsibilities, filling in for Foye Oluokun. In a crowded linebacker room, Combs seems positioned well to make a roster push. The Jaguars may know that if they release him during roster cutdowns, another team may attempt to claim him.

What Coen said: “I think Jabbar, he’s made a ton of plays out there. You could argue for most improved for Jabbar really over the last year. A guy that really spent the majority of the time last year on the practice squad and given show team reps and he’s made so many plays out here. I think we’re excited about what he’s able to do.”

Takeaway: Like Combs, Muhammad was a UDFA last year, but he spent the season on the practice squad. there is potentially a roster spot up for grabs at cornerback, depending on how many players the Jaguars roster at this position. Muhammad had excellent ball production in college, totaling 22 pass breakups and three interceptions over his final two seasons.

What Coen said: “CJ Williams is just, I think he leads the team in receptions right now. Now, he’s getting a lot of reps missing in with a couple different groups, but you talk about what’s the job for a receiver is to get open and catch the ball and he just kind of does that. It’s not necessarily flashy or some big splash move or play. I think quarterbacks trust him. He’s smart, knows his job.”

Takeaway: A Day 3 pick in this year’s draft, Williams figures to round out the Jaguars’ wide receiver room. He brings a big-bodied presence and is willing to help in the run game. Being able to help on special teams will be important for him as well.

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Why 3 Jaguars’ first and second year players on Liam Coen’s radar