Canadian quarterback Nathan Rourke grabs attention at the Jacksonville Jaguars camp after just one preseason game.
In his debut last week, Rourke avoided four tackles at third-and-16 before passing the ball to Quadree Ollison for a 21-yard touchdown that was the difference in a 28-23 win over the Dallas Cowboys.
Rourke, a native of Victoria, BC, is trying to make the jump to the NFL after spending his first two professional seasons with the BC Lions.
Speaking to reporters Thursday, Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson said he was impressed with what he’s seen from the 25-year-old quarterback so far.
“He shows mental and physical toughness,” Pederson said. He has demonstrated his ability to lead a football team, he has also demonstrated that he is capable of performing under certain pressure and under duress. »
“It’s exciting to see a young player who is competing and trying to find a place in the roster. »
Rourke completed nine of 17 passes for 153 yards. He also scored another rushing touchdown in one half.
Pederson also took note of how Rourke manages expectations.
“I’ll tell you one thing I appreciate about Nate is that he’s the same guy every day,” Pederson added. He’s just humble, he comes to work to improve, and that’s how he handled it last week. »
Rourke, who signed a three-year contract with the Jaguars over the winter, is currently behind starter Trevor Lawrence and backup CJ Beathard in the Jaguars quarterback hierarchy.
The Jaguars will face the Detroit Lions on Saturday in another preseason game.
2023-08-16 13:08:00
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