When fans think of the top scramblers in football, Gardner Minshew’s name isn’t one that necessarily comes to mind but opposing teams may be mindful of his abilities to run going forward. Per Pro Football Focus, the rookie was second in scramble yards with 350 as a rookie in 2019, with only the league MVP, Lamar Jackson, ahead of him (430 yards).
Minshew dazzled fans so much with his evasiveness in the pocket more than his rushing ability to the point where it was easy to overlook where he ranked as a scrambler. However, when considering where he ranked in the category in 2019, it’s worth noting that he’s good enough in the department to make it another element to the offense —at least when necessary.
The Jags have a new offensive coordinator in Jay Gruden this year, who should help Minshew tremendously. Gruden has a good track record with young quarterbacks such as Kirk Cousins and Andy Dalton, and if he can get Minshew to reach their levels (when they were at their best), it would work wonders for the offense.
While fans shouldn’t expect him to utilize a lot of designed runs for Minshew, Gruden certainly will be mindful of the young signal-caller’s abilities with his feet. However, it will be the progress Minshew makes as an arm talent that Gruden will look to more so improve.
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