Jacksonville Jaguars sophomore offensive tackle Anton Harrison showed consistent growth throughout his rookie season. A 17-game starter, Harrison established himself as an every-day contributor. He should be even better in 2024 while experiencing a breakout season.
General manager Trent Baalke drafted Harrison with the No. 27 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft after previous right tackle Jawaan Taylor signed a massive deal with the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency. That positioned Harrison to be an immediate starter at right tackle, earning the assignment of protecting quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
Harrison understandably got off to a difficult start. The former Oklahoma standout was credited with allowing three sacks in his opening two starts. Harrison improved as the campaign progressed forward, and he became especially dominant towards the season's conclusion.
Pro Football Focus did not credit Harrison with allowing a single sack in his final nine games. He earned some of his best grades in pass protection throughout Jacksonville's final three matchups, allowing just one combined pressure en route to single-game grades ranging from 75.3 to 80.5.
Anton Harrison vs Will Anderson Jr. 19 matchups, 0 pressures pic.twitter.com/csNvu94RYC
— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) November 28, 2023
All in all, Harrison played 1,113 snaps, accounting for more than 95% of Jacksonville's offensive plays throughout 2023, according to Pro Football Reference. Harrison allowed five sacks and 27 pressures all season long. He was whistled for just seven penalties, displaying technical ability and discipline.
Harrison actually gave up the lowest percentage of pressures out of all rookie lineman according to PFF at 6.3%. Harrison displayed terrific strength and patience to often neutralize opposing pass rushers without help. He was a tough task to defeat at the point of attack.
If there's an area Harrison can improve in to fully unlock his potential in 2024, it's as a run blocker. The Jags fielded the league's 24th-ranked ground attack, averaging just 96.8 yards per contest. Harrison had a lackluster run-blocking grade of 45.8.
Jacksonville's offensive line could be even better around Harrison in 2024. The steady Cam Robinson returns as the starting left tackle. Baalke acquired guard Ezra Cleveland via trade midway through the 2023 season. Cleveland immediately upgraded the left guard spot, and the offense should benefit from a full season of his services.
Veteran blocker Mitch Morse is the new starting center. Morse was brought in to replace 2022 third-rounder Luke Fortner, who struggled mightily last season. Harrison will continue playing next to five-time Pro Bowler Brandon Scherff at right guard.
Lawrence, who signed a $275 million extension earlier this offseason, should be well protected. Sweeping changes have occurred offensively, with rookie first-round pick Brian Thomas Jr. and Gabe Davis replacing Calvin Ridley and Zay Jones at receiver. Travis Etienne Jr. is one of the better dual-threat running backs in the game today and should enjoy another strong season.
Harrison met his pre-draft expectations as a first-round rookie. He was a consistent 17-game starter that displayed high-level potential down the stretch of the 2023 season. If Harrison continues displaying that form, he'll firmly establish himself as one of the better right tackles in the league.
