The 2023 NFL preseason has been a thrilling showcase for Canadian quarterback Nathan Rourke as he suits up for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Rourke’s performance, brimming with poise, accuracy, and flashes of brilliance, has caught the attention of fans, coaches, and MVPs like Patrick Mahomes. Here’s a look at Rourke’s preseason performance, his CFL stardom, and what the future may hold for him in the NFL.

Rourke’s Debut and the Dallas Game: Making Headlines

Nathan Rourke, a native of Victoria, B.C., hit the headlines with his NFL preseason debut against the Dallas Cowboys, breaking four tackle attempts to unleash a spectacular touchdown pass. Rourke’s performance didn’t just earn him accolades but also grabbed the attention of reigning league MVP Patrick Mahomes. The young quarterback finished with 9-of-17 passing for 153 yards and added six rushes for 20 yards and a touchdown.

Continuing Impressions: Facing the Detroit Lions

Rourke’s second appearance was equally impressive, as he led the Jaguars to a 25-7 victory over the Detroit Lions. Playing the entire second half, Rourke demonstrated the pinpoint accuracy and elite escapability that made him a coveted acquisition. He completed 10-of-12 pass attempts (83 percent) for 121 yards, with six rushes for 14 yards.

The Jags’ head coach, Doug Pederson, praised Rourke post-game, lauding his poise, accuracy, toughness, and leadership.

Backup Battle: No. 2 Spot Elusive

Despite the spotlight on his plays, Rourke hasn’t quite managed to seize the No. 2 job from C.J. Beathard, the top backup behind Trevor Lawrence. Rourke’s efforts in the preseason have been admirable, but Pederson’s experience with quarterbacks and Beathard’s proven track record have ensured the positioning remains unchanged. Rourke’s preseason achievements have been against second and third-team defenses, which has also factored into the decision.

From CFL Star to NFL Prospect

Prior to the NFL, the six-foot-two, 209-pound dual-threat passer was dominating the CFL with a sensational 2022 season. Completing 78.7 percent of his pass attempts for 3,349 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in just 10 games, Rourke became the first quarterback to win the CFL’s Most Outstanding Canadian award since 1980.

Future Prospects: The No. 3 Spot and the 2023 Season

With Rourke’s position as the No. 3 quarterback solidified, the Jaguars face a decision on the Victoria native’s role within the organization. A new rule in 2023 allows NFL teams to designate a player as an emergency quarterback on the 53-man roster, but not on the practice squad. Rourke’s preseason stats (19-of-29 for 274 yards with two touchdowns) offer a promising sign that he could remain on the 53-man roster, though the team’s plans are still uncertain.

Rourke and the Jaguars return to action on August 26, and with the regular season just around the corner, the Jags’ plans for the Canadian will become clearer. Whatever the outcome, Rourke’s potential, combined with his successes in both CFL and the NFL preseason, ensures that he remains a player to watch in the 2023 season and beyond.