JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – After being surprisingly healthy all season on defense the Jacksonville Jaguars are now dealing with injuries to three linebackers ahead of their AFC Divisional showdown with Pittsburgh.
Starters Telvin Smith (ankle) and Paul Posluszny (abdomen) did not practice on Wednesday, and Blair Brown, who would start for Posluszny, suffered an injured ankle during Wednesday’s practice. That leaves the Jaguars with only two healthy linebackers – Myles Jack and Lerentee McCray – because Donald Payne was also on the injury report (quad), though he was a full participant.
Smith did not have his foot in a protective boot in the locker room and indicated he’d be fine. He’s the defense’s emotional leader and one of its best playmakers (three interceptions, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, 12 tackles for loss, and two defensive touchdowns). He’s also probably the player tasked with taking Le'Veon Bell in coverage.
Brown was going to be Posluszny’s replacement if Posluszny was unable to play, and coach Doug Marrone has been pleased with the way Brown has played over the last several weeks, including last Sunday’s playoff victory over Buffalo when he replaced Posluszny and had three tackles.
“I think every time he has gotten an opportunity you’re seeing him getting better,” Marrone said. “I said it the other day, he’s a player that is going to be a very good football player and the more experience that he gets, you see the reaction is getting quicker and quicker and he's coming up and making plays. ... We don’t have a problem putting him in there if we have to.”
