AFC South Links: Jaguars, Wayne, Titans

Jaguars rookie Storm Johnson is finally going to get an opportunity to be the team’s featured running back. The seventh-rounder has been inactive for the past six weeks, but an injury to Denard Robinson has forced the 22-year-old into the lineup. Even without the injuries, the coaching staff was trying to find a way to promote their talented young player. Via Hays Carlyon of The Florida Times-Union:

“We were trying to find a way, regardless of the injury to D-Rob, to get Storm up,” said coach Gus Bradley. “I think it’s been based on the last couple weeks of practice. That’s what I’ve been talking to him about. It wasn’t because of injury that you’re getting this opportunity. We were talking to him about it anyway. He’s earned it.”

Johnson, who has compiled 64 rushing yards and two touchdowns this season, appreciated the recognition:

“It meant a lot that my hard work has been noticed. People have been watching me. It makes me want to work harder and do what I’ve been doing.”

Let’s see what else is happening in the AFC South…

  • ESPN.com’s Mike Wells can’t envision the Colts letting go of Reggie Wayne at the conclusion of the season. Instead, he suggests the team should let the veteran make his own decision, since he’ll likely retire when his tenure with the Colts is finished. “This is what I am. This is what I believe in,” Wayne told Wells. “I’ve been here this long, I just don’t see myself anywhere else. This is where I want to finish. At the end of the day, when it’s all said and done, whenever that day is, I just want to be wearing blue and white. That’s just what I want to do.”
  • Paul Kuharsky of ESPN.com previews the Titans‘ tops needs in free agency, focusing on a pass-rushing linebacker and help on the offensive line. The writer adds that the team will not be afraid to spend.
  • John Glennon of The Tennessean collects the opinions of various NFL pundits regarding the future of Zach Mettenberger. All of the analysts believe the rookie will certainly be in the running to be the Titans quarterback of the future. However, none would be surprised if the team pursued a veteran in free agency or another young player in the draft.
  • Following news that offensive lineman Michael Oher was placed on the injured reserve, Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean tweets his belief that the tackle’s tenure with the Titans is over.
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