JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Chad Owens was supposed to be primarily a kick returner for the Jacksonville Jaguars.

But the 5-foot-7 rookie from Hawai'i already has done much more.

Owens, a sixth-round draft pick, caught three passes for 37 yards in Jacksonville's 20-17 preseason victory against Tampa Bay on Saturday. All three receptions resulted in first downs and kept alive drives that ended with two field goals.

"I think one thing is clear: he is a guy who has to be considered for a position and not just as a return specialist," coach Jack Del Rio said. "I think he's earned that."

Owens was the star of training camp, showing deep speed and bringing energy to every workout. Even though 2004 first-round pick Reggie Williams and 2005 first-round selection Matt Jones got more hype, Owens made more plays.

It didn't go unnoticed.

Owens started as the No. 3 receiver against the Buccaneers.

"He's tough to cover," Del Rio said. "He has great explosiveness and elusiveness. He has a real solid understanding. I think June Jones did a terrific job of developing him and he comes in here as a very polished young receiver."

Although he fumbled a punt early in the first quarter that led to a field goal for Tampa Bay, Owens regrouped and made several big plays.

He had a 17-yard reception on third and 15, helping set up a field goal in the first quarter. He had an 8-yard catch on third and 6, then added a 12-yarder on the same drive on third and 8, helping put the Jags in position for another field goal.

He also returned four punts for 58 yards and two kickoffs for 51 yards.

"All I can say is, it's one snap and (my mind is) clear," Owens said. "You can't let one bad play affect the rest of your game. That is one thing that I have learned from the veterans. ... The next play is always the most important."

Owens' adjustment has been relatively seamless.

"Sometimes with him being so short, he gets lost, but he's always open," quarterback Byron Leftwich said. "Every time you look at film, this guy is always open. He's studying, he's asking questions, and he wants to be a part of this."