Jaguars want to get Marcedes Lewis involved in offense

Instability on the Jacksonville Jaguars offensive line has led to an increased blocking role for tight end Mercedes Lewis. According to the Florida Times-Union, however, a number of folks within the Jacksonville organization hope to get Lewis involved more heavily in the passing game. Lewis caught five passes for 52 yards in the Jaguars' season-opener against the Minnesota Vikings, but he's only seen one ball thrown his way since then.

"He’s the best blocking tight end in the NFL," Jacksonville quarterback Blaine Gabbert said. "But like you saw in the first game [against Minnesota], you can get him rolling in the passing game. Get the ball in his hands, he has the ability to make plays and stretch the field. He’s a matchup nightmare for linebackers."

Lewis should have a chance to catch more passes this Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Jaguars are hopeful that guard Eben Britton and tackle Cameron Bradfield will return from early-season injuries. If that's the case, Lewis will likely be able to unload some of his blocking duties. It appears that he's ready to do so.

"It is what it is, I’m a tight end," Lewis said about his increased blocking duties. "If I was a receiver, I might be bitter."