Kelvin Beachum Signs With Jacksonville Jaguars

Solid left tackles are hard to come by in the NFL.  So any time they become available in free agency, they’re bound to get lots of attention.  Despite coming off a season-ending injury, veteran Kelvin Beachum still has plenty to offer and a team finally brought him on board.  The Jacksonville Jaguars are that team as they continue to flex their financial muscles.

Here’s a recap of the player they’ve acquired and what he’ll do for them.

"“The stud left tackle has spent the first five seasons of his career protecting Big Ben and paving holes for Le’Veon Bell in Pittsburgh. The 6-3, 303 pound SMU grad is not a must-get guy but he is definitely a solid blocker. While Beachum has yet to make a Pro Bowl, he is regarded as an up-and-coming lineman. Look for him to get a hefty paycheck from his next contract.”"

Sure, he’s not on the upside of his career but Beachum is a solid left tackle who should have some good years ahead of him.  When healthy, he is a sturdy and dependable pass protector.  Something former 2nd overall pick Luke Joeckel hasn’t been.  Beachum will be able to guard the blind side of Blake Bortles as he continues to develop as a passer.

GRADE:  B+

Given the amount of money the Jaguars still have to spend, there isn’t much of a concern about price.  They needed a left tackle they could count on and now they have one.  Beachum may not be a Joe Thomas, but he’s better than people realize.  The one lingering question is whether that ACL has healed correctly.  Smart money says it has or they wouldn’t have signed him.  Add in the experience to a young offense and it’s a favorable deal for all.