Jacksonville Jaguars Training Camp Roster Predictions – Safety

With training camp firmly in our sights, it’s time to take a look at the players and predict who’s going to make the final roster after all is said and done. There shouldn’t be too many surprises, but there are a few starting spots still up for grabs and there’s a chance we see a longtime veteran or two cut.

Let’s continue our series with a group that will be interesting to watch during camp – the safeties.

Starters – Johnathan Cyprien, James Sample

Oct 26, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars safety Johnathan Cyprien (37) chases Miami Dolphins wide receiver

(82) during the first half of the game at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

After what was honestly a somewhat disappointing second season, Johnathan Cyprien should get a fair shot at developing into the playmaking strong safety many expected him to become in 2014. Forced into deep coverage far too often, Cyprien just had too many responsibilities last season. With improved play at free safety, Cyprien should be free to play more in the box and try to make an impact in the run game.

Despite being sidelined by a broken arm this offseason, I expect James Sample to be the starting free safety in week 1 against the Carolina Panthers. Coming out of Louisville, Sample was one of the best cover safeties in college football by advanced metrics. He’s going to get every chance to beat out the veterans on the roster.

Next: Some pedigree on the second string

Backups – Josh Evans, Sergio Brown

Nov 9, 2014; London, UNITED KINGDOM; Jacksonville Jaguars free safety Josh Evans (26) celebrates recovering a fumble by Dallas Cowboys wide receiver

(11) (not shown) at Wembley Stadium Mandatory Credit: Steve Flynn-USA TODAY Sports

Josh Evans is one of the players who should be most worried about losing their roster spot. Wide receiver Ace Sanders was the first David Caldwell draft pick to get the boot, and Evans could be next. One of the worst safeties in the league last year, Evans played poorly enough in his extended playing time for the Jaguars to bring in 2 guys who should rank ahead of him on the depth chart. His familiarity with the defense might keep him safe for one more year though.

Sergio Brown is basically a lock to make it on special teams, but he will also get a legitimate look at free safety. The Jaguars would probably prefer that Sample starts however.

Next: Guys who don't make the cut, but might stick around

Cut – Craig Loston, Desmond Cooper, Matt Daniels

Oct 5, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end

(90) celebrates his fumble recovery with strong safety Craig Loston (20) in the fourth quarter as the Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Jaguars 17-9 at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sportst.

The guys on the cut list shouldn’t be discouraged, as they have a realistic shot to make the roster. I wouldn’t be shocked if Loston or Cooper squeezes in ahead of Evans. Cooper is particularly intriguing as a measurables guy, but he has a ways to go as an undrafted free agent.

Next: Training camp CB predictions

More from Black and Teal

• 5 potential cap casualties the Jacksonville Jaguars should be in on in 2023
• The Jacksonville Jaguars got so lucky with the 2021 NFL Draft
• Jacksonville Jaguars opt for continuity at RB, re-sign JaMycal Hasty
• Jaguars Mock Draft: Huge trade for a WR, add more help on offense
• 3 landing spots for Jacksonville Jaguars WR Marvin Jones in 2023 NFL free agency