Jaguars OC suggests big things are ahead for rookie wideout

The positive steps taken by Jacksonville Jaguars rookie wideout Brian Thomas Jr. haven't gone unnoticed by offensive coordinator Press Taylor, who's forecasting big things for the first-round pick.

Speaking with reporters on Wednesday, Taylor pointed out that Thomas was "a lot further along" than he was at the start of training camp. Meanwhile, he believes the former LSU standout's growing confidence has him on the fast track to become an impact player for the Jaguars.

"You see this progression. You see a little bit more of him becoming who he knew he would be," Taylor said, via the Jaguars . "He's a long way from where he's going to be in two weeks, let alone 18 weeks from now."

It's easy to see why Taylor is excited about what the rookie could bring to the team's offense.

Thomas already flashed his ability during the preseason, albeit a small sample size, catching two of three targets for 55 yards. Likewise, he has compelling traits, armed with the size (6-foot-4, 205 pounds) to win contested balls and the speed to stretch the field, which he showcased after recording the top speed ( 22.91 mph ) at this year's NFL Combine.

Most importantly, he seems like the perfect fit for quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

Thomas thrived on deep throws during his final year in college. On targets of 20 yards or more, he ranked third in the NCAA in receptions (15), second in receiving yards (670) and first in touchdowns (12), per Pro Football Focus .

Last season, Lawrence finished with the third-most 20-plus-yard throws (75) in the NFL, compiling 1,048 yards, a 114.9 passer rating and 11 touchdowns , tied with San Francisco 49ers' Brock Purdy for the league lead. Meanwhile, he ranked fifth in completion percentage (45.3) and second in completions (34) among the 19 quarterbacks with 50 or more attempts.

Thomas may not receive as much hype as the three receivers taken ahead of him in the 2024 NFL Draft, each selected among the top 10. However, his landing spot and abilities might allow him to be just as productive.