Former Vols: Jacques McClendon Named Jaguars’ Starting Center
By Zach Ragan
Former Tennessee Volunteers offensive lineman Jacques McClendon has been named the Jacksonville Jaguars’ starting center, according to multiple reports.
Jacques McClendon will start at center, Gus Bradley announced.
— Michael DiRocco (@ESPNdirocco) September 1, 2014
McClendon was drafted by the Colts in the fourth round (129th overall selection) of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played in four games as a rookie.
The former Vol spent time with the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons in 2011 and 2012, but never appeared in a game. McClendon was signed by the Jaguars prior to the 2013 season and appeared in five games for Jacksonville last season. He started two of those games.
McClendon is taking his status as the starter in stride. As you can tell by his comments to ESPN.
"McClendon: It’s just an opportunity to build on what I’ve started to build over the past year. I don’t really reflect on it. I think when you look back too much you can’t see what’s right in front of you, and what’s in front of me is a great opportunity."
The Jaguars’ newest starter played at Tennessee from 2006-2009. McClendon started 26 games (mostly at right guard) during his career on Rocky Top. He also graduated with a master’s degree in Sports Management.