JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey, the fifth overall pick in the 2016 draft, is not expected to play in the team’s preseason opener tonight against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium, the team announced.
Two other starters (center Brandon Linder and free safety Tashaun Gipson) also aren’t expected to play, the team said. Left tackle Kelvin Beachum was one of eight players who did not make the trip. Linder has been bothered by a groin injury, while Gipson is being held out as a precautionary measure.
A team spokesman said Ramsey does not have an injury or is experiencing problems with his surgically repaired right knee but is being held out as a precaution. Ramsey missed all of organized team activities after undergoing surgery to repair a partial meniscus tear.
Receiver Rashad Lawrence, running back Jonas Gray, defensive end Johnathan Woodard, offensive lineman Luke Bowanko, offensive lineman Kadeem Edwards, receiver Shaquelle Evans and defensive tackle Sheldon Day also remained in Jacksonville.
Ramsey had been working with the first-team defense both as an outside corner and as as the nickelback. Prince Amukamara, who signed a one-year deal with the Jaguars in March, will start instead of Ramsey.
Beachum has either not practiced at all or participated only in individual work over the Jaguars’ last six practices. The team says he has not had a setback in his recovery from a torn left ACL and resting him this much was part of the plan to ease him back onto the field.
Linder participated in individual drills only in the Jaguars’ last three practices after missing the three previous practices.
