John Oehser

JACKSONVILLEChris Rodriguez Jr.is excited and happy.

IfHead Coach Liam Coenis part of why the Jaguars' newest running back feels that way, he isn't the only reason. This is a big, important week for Rodriguez for many reasons.

Rodriguez, a fourth-year veteran, signed with the Jaguars as a restricted free agent from the Washington Commanders this week.He's a powerful player who played one season for Coen at the University of Kentuckyand who the Jaguars believe can help one of the NFL's best offenses by adding to the interior running offense.

Rodriguez, who rushed for 500 yards and six touchdowns this past season, originally was a sixth-round selection by the Commanders in the 2023 NFL Draft from the University of Kentucky where he played the 2021 season under Coen, who served that season as Kentucky's offensive coordinator.

Rodriguez, who averaged 4.5 yards per carry last seasonand who is considered strong at the point of contact with an ability to force missed tackles, will join a running back group that now includes second-year veteransBhayshul TutenandLeQuint Allen Jr., seventh-year veteranDeeJay Dallasand first-year veteranJa'Quinden Jackson.

Running back Travis Etienne Jr., the Jaguars' leading rusher,signed with the New Orleans Saints this weekand Rodriguez called his next task "clicking with those running backs" and "figuring out what it is that can help make us more efficient or not even just as a running back, but as an offensive standpoint."

Rodriguez has six receptions for 54 yards in three seasons, adding that he has ability as a receiver.

Rodriguez said he agreed to his contract shortly after Wednesday's 4 p.m. start of the NFL League Year.His agent was among many people "blowing up" his phone at that point as he boarded a plane for a flight to Virginia.

Also among people calling was Coen and Rodriguez said while he played just one season for Coen at Kentucky, their relationship is a lasting one.