The Jacksonville Jaguars sought to fulfill their longstanding need at running back this offseason by pursuing the biggest name on the free agent market, DeMarco Murray. In the end, the Jaguars were outbid for Murray’s services by the Philadelphia Eagles and forced to consider other options.

Enter T.J. Yeldon. The Jaguars spent a second-round draft pick on the rookie out of Alabama with the hope he could become the every-down running back their offense has been lacking.

There is no doubt Yeldon is the future at tailback for the Jaguars. The only question is, how quickly can they expect him to become the workhorse their offense so desperately needs?

It may not be extremely difficult for Yeldon to establish himself early on. His competition for the job does not exactly inspire confidence. Veteran Toby Gerhart is coming off a disappointing, injury-plagued season. Denard Robinson had a breakout year in 2014, but the former college quarterback still has a long way to go in his development as an NFL running back. Bernard Pierce, claimed off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens in March, is also coming off a poor season.

Yeldon’s ability in the passing game provides the greatest reason for optimism. Unlike most young running backs, he has plenty of experience in pass protection and being used as a receiver out of the backfield. He was used regularly on third downs at Alabama, which should work in his favor in the NFL.

Furthering Yeldon’s transition is the strong commitment the Jaguars have shown to the running game. This offseason saw the addition of three new offensive linemen, two of whom are expected to start immediately at center and right tackle. The third, rookie third-round pick A.J. Cann, is expected to battle veteran Zane Beadles for the starting left guard spot. This should help the Jaguars improve upon a rushing attack that finished 21st in yards per game last season.

The Jaguars have been searching for an answer at running back since the departure of Maurice Jones-Drew. If all goes as planned, Yeldon could quickly become the every-down tailback the offense has been missing.

K.J. Momberg is the Jacksonville Jaguars Beat Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @kjmomberg.