Guy

Whimper

Whimper became a starter for the first time in his six-year career last season, taking over at right tackle for injured Eben Britton. Starting 15 games, Whimper was destroyed by opposing pass rushers. Pro Football Focus credited Whimper with a league-high 14 sacks allowed, which is really something when you consider he was “blocking” left defensive ends. Blaine Gabbert should say some offseason prayers that Britton gets 100 percent by Week 1.

Rookie Cameron Bradfield has come on to replace him. Blaine Gabbert has more lost fumbles (2) than first downs (1) or net passing yards (1) in a 34-0 blowout. The change in tackles isn’t going to make much of a difference.

Guy Whimper has played well as a fill-in at right tackle, so Britton is now competing at two positions in an effort to get the best five linemen on the field. For the most part, rookie Will Rackley has met expectations at left guard.

Britton is practicing fully, but it’s still not a sure thing that he’ll start over Guy Whimper, who played well in the opener. The Jaguars figure to approach this on a week-by-week basis until Britton starts to separate from the journeyman Whimper.

The Jags have also parted with QB John Parker Wilson and CB Brandon King. Re-signed to a two-year, $5 million contract last March, Whimper appeared in all 16 games last season, but started only six. He graded out near the bottom of Pro Football Focus’ tackle ratings. A whipping boy among Jaguars fans, Whimper is going to have trouble finding guaranteed money on the open market.

They added UDFA LB Terence Garvin, as well. Whimper, 30, shouldn’t be in the league anymore. Pro Football Focus charged Whimper with a league-high 14 sacks allowed in 2011, and he graded out 74th-of-80 qualifying offensive tackles last season in Jacksonville. He’ll compete for a roster spot in camp.

Whimper is a versatile backup that played on 270 snaps at four different positions on the Steelers’ offensive line last year. He’ll have the same role if he makes the team this season.

Whimper is apparently a favorite of GM Jerry Reese but not close to being ready for such a task. David Diehl is likely to protect Eli Manning’s blind side.

If Whimper plays well enough, Diehl could stay at guard. Most Giants observers believed Diehl was the favorite, but Whimper looks to have the inside track. Eli Manning’s season may depend on the winner of this battle playing well.

The backup left tackle had a high ankle sprain.