The Jacksonville Jaguars’ new TE is dealing with a shoulder injury

The Jaguars’ new starting tight end Brenton Strange is dealing with a sprained ACL in his left shoulder and will begin Week 16 of practice on a limited basis, Jacksonville head coach Doug Pederson announced Wednesday.

Strange took over as Jacksonville’s starting tight end for the remainder of the year after Evan Engram was ruled out for the season last week with a labrum injury.

Strange caught a career-best 11 passes for 73 yards on Sunday against the New York Jets.

“Brenton had an AC sprain after the game. He’ll just be a little limited, he’ll be fine,” Pederson said. “We’re just going to limit him today, no contact, things like that.”

Strange, Jacksonville’s second-round pick and No. 61 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, has recorded 34 receptions for 329 yards and two touchdowns in 14 games and seven starts this season, a breakout campaign after he caught just five passes for 35 yards and a touchdown as a rookie.

Strange started for Jacksonville in Weeks 2 through 5 when Engram suffered a hamstring injury in the first game of the season against the Miami Dolphins.

“Brenton was a bright spot for us,” Pederson described Strange Monday. “Someone who we as a team have always placed a lot of trust in. I also think for Brenton it’s all about getting that chance and now he’s obviously got it in unfortunate circumstances.” But he was really just a bright spot.

“He did everything we asked him to do. He does a great job in the running game, he’s physical. Then see what he can do in the passing game. Great hands, ability to separate and get open and then break tackles. That’s what you want from your tight end.”

Jacksonville will face the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 16 on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET at Allegiant Stadium.