Offensive Lineman Jason Spriggs

Predominantly playing the tackle position, Spriggs has yet to find a true position of comfort and one to call home. Spriggs is a former second-round pick who is entering his third season and has yet to live up to his true potential. 2018 could be a make or break year for the 24-year-old.

If Spriggs was where the coaching staff thought he would be when they drafted him back in 2016, he could have been this team’s starting right tackle by now. But, sadly, he is not. Spriggs has been unable to stay healthy and maybe that was his biggest reason for lackluster success in his young career. Or maybe it’s the fact that he was undersized or had a lack of strength to handle NFL defensive lineman. I personally can’t attest as to the exact reason, but it’s high time he figured it out.

Incumbent starter Bryan Bulaga has got two years left on his deal. So does Spriggs. If he is finally able to put it together, there may be a starting spot just ripe for the taking and at pretty convenient timing for the team. They are going to have a decision to make next offseason. At this time it might already be made, but luckily Spriggs has got some time to turn things around.

The former Indiana Hoosier needs to have a solid season as a backup tackle on this offensive line. This past Thursday, Spriggs didn’t get many opportunities against first-team defenders. Those reps went to Byron Bell and he, well, didn’t do too hot. Spriggs has been taking some reps with the first team in practice this week and could look to start the game vs the Steelers. His roster spot could be in jeopardy if he doesn’t play well.

Over the offseason, Spriggs put on about 20 pounds and according to the coaching staff, “is adjusting to the new weight.” Time will tell if this indeed what Spriggs needs to propel himself to the high expectations of being a second round pick.

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