AFC Notes: James Gladstone, Cam Ward, Colts, Jaguars, Titans

Colts

• Oklahoma State RB Ollie Gordon II has several formal meetings scheduled at the combine including with the Broncos, Chargers, Chiefs, Colts, Dolphins, and Steelers. (Ryan Fowler)
• Per Mike Payton, Clemson linebacker Barrett Carter says he’s had meetings with the Bengals, Colts, Cowboys, Lions, and Ravens. 
• Georgia S Malaki Starks had a formal combine interview with the Colts. (Stephen Holder)
• Per Drake Wally, the Colts have met with Cincinnati RB Corey Kiner at the combine. 
• Michigan TE Colston Loveland had a formal Combine interview with the Colts. (Dave Heilman)
• Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston had a formal Combine interview with the Colts. (Destin Adams)

Jaguars

• Ryan O’Halloran reports former Bills strength and conditioning coach Eric Ciano has been hired to the same role with the Jaguars.
• Jaguars EVP Tony Boselli played a key role in bringing GM James Gladstone to Jacksonville, SI’s Albert Breer said.
• Breer added Boselli reached out to both Rams GM Les Snead and HC Sean McVay and received unanimous support for his football acumen and his ability to process information and create tangible results from it.
• Breer added Jaguars HC Liam Coen, not knowing what both McVay and Snead had told Boselli, said Gladstone’s ability to process information and communicate was unparalleled and shared their same mindset.
• Gladstone’s second interview is what sealed the deal for him to get Jacksonville’s job. He had a clear and concise vision for where Jacksonville was at and had a detailed plan for the draft and free agency, Breer added.
• Breer also noted Gladstone will have full control over the draft and all roster-building aspects of the team. Boselli will oversee strength & conditioning, medical, travel, PR, and facilities, while Coen will have full control of coaches and players.
• The Jaguars haven’t discussed the future regarding WR Christian Kirk, who’s a release candidate due to his highest cap figure on the team at $24.4 million. (Michael DiRocco)
• DiRocco adds QB Trevor Lawrence‘s input will be considered when it comes to the roster. 
• Jacksonville HC Liam Coen on Lawrence: “He’s our guy. He’s the franchise.” (Cameron Wolfe)
• Coen plans to run the offense through WR Brian Thomas Jr. while giving Lawrence as much input as he can handle. (Wolfe)

Titans

With the No. 1 overall pick, Miami QB Cam Ward will certainly be in consideration for the Titans as they look to find a franchise quarterback. Ward believes he would fit right in with Tennesse because of their offensive scheme that resembles what he ran at Miami. 

“I think I know a decent amount (about the Tennessee’s offense),” Ward said, via Jim Wyatt of the team’s website. “I was able to watch a couple of their games this past season. A lot of their route concepts are similar stuff that we do (at Miami). So, if I’m drafted there, I just think it’d be plug-and-play.”

Ward talked about his work ethic and eagerness to make the most of his opportunity wherever he’s drafted. 

“I think just what separates me from everybody is the way I approach it, the mindset that I have going onto the field each and every game. And coming from my journey, not a lot of people can do that. So, I just think it shows the world that I’m willing to put in (the work) — whether I go first round or second round, at the end of the day … it’s all about establishing yourself with each and every opportunity.”