Much of the chatter around the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason has centered around the play of quarterback Blake Bortles.

It all came to a head on earlier this month, as head coach Doug Marrone demoted Bortles from being the definitive starter ahead of the regular season. Marrone, who has since named Bortles as the Jaguars' starter for Week 1, recently told Michael DiRocco of ESPN.com that he believes that the quarterback competition has brought out the best in the former third overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft.

“I think he's doing a nice job,” Marrone said. “I really do. For me, personally, it's the best I've seen him.”

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The Jaguars have placed plenty of hopes and expectations on Bortles' shoulders, wanting him to become the franchise quarterback that can lead them to success. He had shown potential in his second campaign in in 2015 by setting single-season franchise records for passing touchdowns (35), passing yards (4,428), pass completions (355), and pass attempts (606).

Bortles experienced a significant step back last season, throwing for 3,905 passing yards and 23 touchdowns as well as 16 interceptions (he also had six fumbles). His woes were only further emphasized with the Jaguars' struggles last season. They finished with a 3-13 record, including a nine-game losing streak.

This may just be a vote of confidence by Marrone, but this is clearly a make-or-break year for Bortles in his fourth campaign. Keep in mind, the Jaguars decided earlier this offseason to pick up his $19 million option for the 2018 season.