When Justin Blackmon permanently out of the lineup for the Jacksonville Jaguars, it appeared Cecil Shorts was preparing for a big 2013 season. The wide receiver certainly displayed that potential when Blackmon was suspended for the first four games of the season. He continued the success when the leading receiver returned, but now suspended indefinitely, Shorts has seen his role suddenly decrease. Now, the wide receiver is speaking out and expressing frustration with the entire organization.
In the first four games of the season, Shorts put up 337 yards, averaging 13.0 yards per carry in place of Blackmon. His numbers were impressive considering the quarterback situation for Jacksonville. When Blackmon returned for four games, Shorts was still excelling, putting up 228 yards during that time, averaging 11.4 yards per grab and 11 targets a game. When Blackmon was ruled out indefinitely, Shorts appeared destined for double-digit targets and a 1,000-yard receiving season.
The past two games have seen Shorts drop off dramatically. He has nine total targets, four completions and just 64 yards. That is a dramatic change in numbers considering Shorts is now "the guy" in the Jaguars passing game. Needless to say, he is not thrilled.
"I'm not holding my tongue anymore," Shorts said, via CBSSports.com. "To have one target until seven minutes left in the game, that's [bleeping] dumb. That's dumb, period. I have to say something and sit down with them because it's getting ridiculous, in my opinion."
Shorts is planning a sit down with head coach Gus Bradley to discuss his diminishing role with the team. Does the drop in numbers have something to do with Henne at quarterback, something that is not entirely working out? Shorts stopped before he could get himself in trouble, noting "I've said too much already." Smart.
Shorts was a fourth round draft pick back in 2011 and has made the most of his time with the Jaguars. As the team's new leading wide receiver, he has a right to complain about being targeted just once for the first 50 minutes of the game. The Jaguars are having issues getting playmakers to make plays this season. Shorts appears to be the only one capable of making something out of nothing.
