Ameer Abdullah delivered a strong audition for the Jacksonville Jaguars in their 34-17 preseason defeat to the Carolina Panthers on Aug. 21 at EverBank Stadium. The 12-year veteran accumulated 82 yards from scrimmage—45 rushing yards on six carries and 37 receiving yards on three catches—all in the first half. Abdullah's standout run of 23 yards highlighted his performance, though he dropped a pass in the end zone that could have extended his impact.
Abdullah competes with undrafted rookie J'Mari Taylor for the final running back spot on the opening day roster for the Sept. 13 matchup against Cleveland. The two are separated by nine years in age but display similar commitment to earning their place on the team. With planned third-down back LeQuint Allen Jr. sidelined by injury, Abdullah seeks additional opportunities with the first-team offense.
The running backs have limited remaining chances to prove themselves before roster cuts. Joint practices against Tampa Bay on Aug. 25-26 and a final preseason game on Aug. 28 represent their last auditions for the four-spot that sits behind Bhayshul Tuten and Chris Rodriguez.
