AFC Notes: Trevor Lawrence, Jaguars, Texans, Titans

Jaguars

• Per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, a lot of NFL evaluators thinks Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence had no chance to succeed with Urban Meyer last season and new HC Doug Pederson will be a big upgrade. Said one scout: “He didn’t have a chance last year. But having Doug and new weapons will help him a ton. He needs support, both in personnel and schematically, and then the natural ability can take over. He should have that now.”
• Another scout told Fowler the Jaguars’ supporting cast is still iffy on offense even after adding WR Christian Kirk, TE Evan Engram and WR Zay Jones and getting RB Travis Etienne back from injury this offseason: “He’s in a tough spot because while on paper they restocked weapons, I don’t believe them to be legitimate enough. But he’s got enough ability to overcome some of the problems there.”
• Not everyone was positive, however. Some thought Lawrence failed to maximize the friendly elements built into the system and his final stat line of 12 touchdowns, 17 interceptions and just a 33.5 QBR didn’t meet the lofty expectations he had as a prospect: “I didn’t necessarily see a transcendent talent from him. [He] didn’t look as explosive throwing or on the move as I expected.”

Texans

• Texans HC Lovie Smith expects first-round CB Derek Stingley Jr. (foot) and OT Kenyon Green (back) to be ready for training camp after undergoing surgeries this offseason: ”We expect them to be full speed, ready to go. Both players have had off-season surgeries. We knew that. So, we had a plan.” (Aaron Wilson)
• Texans QB Davis Mills feels more confident and comfortable in their offense now entering his second year in the NFL: “I feel like I’m at a good spot. Obviously, there’s still a lot of room to grow, but more confident, more comfortable out there with the offense and my teammates around me. Ready to keep progressing and head into the season.” (Aaron Wilson)

Titans

Titans OL Dillon Radunz has been practicing primarily at right tackle this offseason, and he appreciates the fact that he can hone in on one position.

“It’s nice to focus on one position, but we’re still going through the process,” Radunz said, via Titans Wire. “I’m sure I’ll get some guard work here and there, working along the lines. As for now, it feels good to hone my skills in one position.”