The Jacksonville Jaguars threw a wrench at the wide receiver market and didnt make many teams happy when they gave Christian Kirk a four-year deal worth $72 million. While its too early to tell if things are going to work out the way they envision, its fair to say the Jags are pleased with the early returns on their investment.

Jaguars offensive coordinator Press Taylor recently appeared on the Happy Hour and touched on several topics, including his relationship with Trevor Lawrence, how he will work with his staff, and the teams additions in free agency, including Kirk. When asked what the wide receiver brings to the offense, Taylor said the biggest thing is his versatility to line up all over the formation and win outside. He also praised his speed and described him as a great decision-maker. The offensive coordinator added that he likes his demeanor.

You know, probably something I didnt know about him was his demeanor. Weve been around each other for a week. Hes got a great demeanor about himself. He again asks great questions, similar to the quarterbacks where I think that makes up for a lot of less time on the grass, where they have the ability to sit and communicate in a meeting room and get on the same page and he brings out that element. He brings big plays, [hes a] dynamic player. Hes good with the ball in his hands. Hes able to win in a number of different ways which is intriguing for us.

Host J.P. Shadrick then noted that he hadnt heard someone refer to a widout as a decision-maker and asked Taylor what he meant. The offensive coordinator says part of that is the kind of questions Kirk makes, Can I adjust this way versus that?, Do you expect me to do this? Heres the whole clip in case you want to give it a listen.

A player is worth what a team is to pay him and while Kirks past production might not have been on par with the contract the Jaguars gave him, they are the ones that set the amount. They paid him not for what he has done but because of what he can do for them and if he lives up to expectations, will observers be able to say general manager Trent Baalke overpaid for him?

Its true that Kirk hasnt had a 1,000-yard season but its also worth noting that he wasnt the top target in the Arizona Cardinals offense and he thrive once head coach Kliff Kingsbury started to use his skillset correctly (using him more in the slot). The Jags saw what he did last season and believe he can take the next step.

The Jaguars needed to get Trevor Lawrence as many weapons as possible this offseason and while they had to pay a premium for Kirk, it will be worth it if he becomes a reliable target, helps them score more points, and plays a role in the young passers development in 2022.

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Jaguars pleased with investment in WR Christian Kirk - Black and Teal