Teams are often either optimistic or noncommittal when it comes to speaking of players coming off injury or under suspension, so general manager Dave Caldwell's remarks on Justin Blackmon yesterday were, uh, sobering. Caldwell sounds like he doesn't expect Blackmon's suspension to be lifted anytime soon.
Asked yesterday if Blackmon would play in 2014, Caldwell said "It's not something we're counting on." He didn't stop there, adding that it would be a "relative surprise" if Blackmon did play.
Last fall Blackmon was suspended indefinitely by the NFL for a second violation of the league's substance abuse policy.
Caldwell concedes he hasn't received any updates from the league, so it's possible he's just proceeding as if the team won't have Blackmon available, since he currently isn't. That could change, as Blackmon is eligible to apply for reinstatement before the start of training camp.
Still, his use of the word "surprise" doesn't sound promising for Blackmon's future. It's possible the team has tired of him even if he is reinstated.
The Jaguars, sitting at No. 3 overall, could certainly consider drafting Sammy Watkins to pair him with Cecil Shorts. That's the kind of move that would marginalize Blackmon, even if available, in a hurry.
Talented guy, but it doesn't look good for Blackmon contributing to the Jaguars this season.
--Andy Richardson