Gladstone with update on Jaguars player who is on injured reserve

On Tuesday, Jacksonville Jaguars General Manager James Gladstone provided an encouraging update on the status of offensive lineman Patrick Mekari, who is currently on injured reserve. Following back surgery reported on August 17, the extent of Mekari's absence was initially uncertain. Gladstone clarified on that day that Mekari had been placed on injured reserve during the roster cutdown period, with a designation to return.

At the very least, Mekari is expected to miss four games. However, there is potential for him to return even sooner. According to Gladstone, if Mekari manages to practice during Weeks 5 or 6, he might be in contention to return sooner than initially anticipated. Nonetheless, a ramp-up period is likely to be necessary before Mekari can resume playing in Sunday's games.

The prospect of Mekari returning in the first half of the season represents positive news for the Jaguars. In his absence, Ezra Cleveland took up the role of right guard during the last week of practice.