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The Jaguars opted not to pick up the 2017 option on tackle Luke Joeckel’s contract this week, something that didn’t come as much of a surprise after they added Kelvin Beachum to the roster earlier this year.

Had Joeckel lived up to expectations as the second overall pick of the 2013 draft, the Jaguars would have had no need to sign a left tackle recovering from a torn ACL to compete with him for the job this summer. They did, though, and Beachum says that he’s getting ready to start cutting as he continues a rehab process that has him feeling very confident about what’s coming down the road.

“The knee is great,” Beachum said, via the team’s website. “It’s amazing. The staff here has done a phenomenal job of assessing where we’re at, putting a solid plan together and allowing me to do what I do best – and that’s execute and do the performance aspect to push myself. I’m feeling good about it. I’m feeling great. I’m ready to do what I do best and that’s play left tackle. … I’m looking to play 19 games this year, and that comes with a first-round bye, so whatever is needed to get that done, that’s what I’m here to do.”

The Jaguars have a four-year team option on Beachum beyond this season, something they’re unlikely to pick up should Joeckel beat out Beachum for the job. If Beachum is healthy, though, past performances would suggest he’s the better bet to wind up at left tackle when the season gets underway in September.