With training camp quickly approaching, ESPN's Michael DiRocco put together an early 53-man roster prediction for the Jacksonville Jaguars, and left off was an offseason addition made by GM James Gladstone.
At the linebacker position, DiRocco had the Jaguars keeping six players, but not included was seventh-round draft pick Parker Hughes.
Could Parker Hughes miss out on making the Jaguars' 53-man roster?
Although he's a recent draft pick, Hughes faces a very crowded linebacker position group.
Foye Oluokun and Dennis Gardeck are two starters in the Jaguars' base defense. Ventrell Miller and Branson Combs are competing for the third starting role.
Jack Kiser is likely Oluokun's backup and was a core special teams contributor last season.
The sixth roster spot in DiRocco's projection went to Jalen McLeod, who, like
Gardeck, can play linebacker and rush the passer. John Shipley of Jaguars on SI called McLeod a "real riser" during offseason programs, specifically as a pass rusher.
Even Yasir Abdullah, who was also left off this roster prediction, has quite a bit of special teams experience for Hughes to compete with.
Hughes' most likely contributions as a rookie would come on special teams, so if he is going to make a roster push, that is where he will have to stand out.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Jaguars insider leaves offseason addition off 53-man roster prediction
