Blaine Gabbert’s first preseason start as the Jaguars “quarterback of the future” included a few nice moments, a lot of timing problems, and a handful of mistakes.
In short, he looked like a rookie.
Gabbert completed 9-of-16 passes for 85 yards in one half of action, primarily against New England’s second and third teamers. (The Patriots rested almost all their starters.) One easy interception was dropped by the Patriots. The Jaguars scored nine points in Gabbert’s half although two of the field goals came on three-and-outs on possessions starting deep in New England territory.
When Gabbert found his first read, he made some nice throws. He also made one nice pass under pressure off his back foot to convert a third-and-long, showing off his arm. That’s the good stuff.
Like most rookies, Gabbert took too long to process information. He took three sacks, often from holding the ball too long. He also missed a few open receivers when he felt pressure, and his timing with his wideouts was often off.
This was a nice opportunity for Gabbert to learn. He didn’t show anything that would make us think he can seriously challenge David Garrard for the starting job yet, but he didn’t embarrass himself either.