The Jacksonville Jaguars have made a concerted effort this offseason to strengthen their offensive line, focusing on a Trevor Lawrence offensive line protection plan that emphasizes toughness and reliability. Among their key moves, rookie Wyatt Milum has confidently promised that he will do everything possible to keep quarterback Trevor Lawrence safe from opposing defenders.
Milum, selected 89th overall in the NFL Draft, expressed this commitment clearly after the rookie minicamp. He emphasized that protecting Lawrence is not just a task but a matter of pride, reinforcing his vow to ensure the quarterback’s jersey remains untouched throughout the season.
Wyatt Milum’s Promise to Shield Trevor Lawrence from Pressure
From the outset, Wyatt Milum has been vocal about his protective mindset on the field. In conversations with local media, he highlighted the importance he places on keeping the quarterback clean and safe. Milum said,
“I felt like I mean it when I say something, just going back, not to talk too much about college, but I felt like that’s something I took pride in,”
underscoring his dedication to this principle. He continued,
“I’ve always taken pride in, and especially if you’re playing online, you don’t want no one touching a quarterback. And I feel like that’s the mindset here, especially that’s one reason why I love playing here already, is just the mindset that we have on this offensive line. We don’t want no one touching Trevor.”
—Wyatt Milum, Offensive Lineman
His enthusiasm also extends to the coaching staff, particularly offensive line coach Shaun Sarrett. Milum praised Sarrett’s energy and teaching style, which he believes will help him grow into a key player for the Jaguars. He added,
“Coach Sean. He’s a great online coach. He brings energy the room, how they work that room when, like, they’re teaching and stuff. They make sure we know before we go out here. So I love playing for him already. I can’t wait to play for him down the road,”
demonstrating his eagerness to develop under Sarrett’s guidance. —Wyatt Milum, Offensive Lineman
Milum’s Path Within the Jaguars’ Offensive Line Depth Chart
Although Milum shows promise, he will need to climb the depth chart to become a consistent starter in Jacksonville’s offensive line. Currently, he is likely the second-string left guard behind incumbent Ezra Cleveland, who has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play but remains a contender for the starting role.
Cleveland’s experience and toughness, including playing through injuries last season, make him a resilient figure within the line, but Milum’s physical tools and determined attitude suggest that he could soon challenge for more playing time. Transitioning from a collegiate left tackle to an NFL guard, Milum brings size, strength, and athleticism, all of which are vital for success at the pro level.
General Manager James Gladstone has recognized Milum’s background and intangibles, noting that the former West Virginia Mountaineer provides valuable experience and a winning mindset to the O-line room. This blend of attributes could expedite Milum’s adjustment and eventually earn him a key role protecting Lawrence.
The Significance of Milum’s Commitment for the Jaguars’ Offense
Milum’s firm commitment to safeguarding quarterback Trevor Lawrence reflects the Jaguars’ broader strategy to enhance offensive line stability and effectiveness this season. With added talent from free agency and the draft, alongside new coaching staff energy led by Shaun Sarrett, Jacksonville aims to improve pass protection and create more opportunities for their young franchise quarterback.
If Milum can translate his confidence and collegiate experience into solid performances, he could become a foundational piece of the Jaguars’ offensive line, potentially unseating Cleveland and solidifying the team’s protection in the trenches. This would allow Lawrence to operate with more confidence and fewer risks of injury or pressure-induced errors.
Looking forward, the development of players like Milum will be critical for the Jaguars as they seek to build a competitive roster around Lawrence and deepen their offensive capabilities. Their success in executing this Trevor Lawrence offensive line protection plan may well shape the trajectory of the team’s season and Lawrence’s continued growth as a franchise quarterback.