Jags ‘plan’ to have veteran TE James O’Shaughnessy, center Brandon Linder back vs. Falcons

The Jacksonville Jaguars offense has struggled mightily since the bye week, and the recent injury to receiver Jamal Agnew is unlikely to help. However, the team is likely to get two other veterans back to help lessen the blow of losing Agnew as Urban Meyer said the team plans to bring back veteran tight end James O’Shaughnessy and center Brandon Linder from injured reserve.

“Both of those players are ready to go,” Meyer said when asked about the veterans Friday. “That’s the plan [to have both back this week]”

Linder’s injuries occurred Week 5 against the Tennessee Titans. On a goal-line play, he injured both his MCL and ankle, which resulted in him being carted off the field.

O’Shaughnessy, on the other hand, injured his ankle early in the Jags’ Week 2 game against the Denver Broncos. He only finished the game with three offensive snaps as a result but was designated to return from IR with Linder last week.

Linder is widely regarded as the Jags’ best offensive lineman and is a top-8 center in the eyes of most. That’s exactly why getting him back would be huge for quarterback Trevor Lawrence and running back James Robinson.

As for O’Shaughnessy, he was viewed as the Jags best receiving tight end before his ankle injury. Now, those shoes appear to have been filled by trade acquisition Dan Arnold. Still, backup tight end Chris Manhertz isn’t as good a receiver as the veteran and has struggled with penalties. That leaves the opportunity for O’Shaughnessy to return and be a solid No. 2 behind Arnold, which would make the overall offense better.