Derek Cox, Terrance Knighton Find Jobs Elsewhere
By Luke Sims
Nov 18, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Derek Cox (21) intercepts a pass intended for Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson (80) in overtime at Reliant Stadium. The Texans defeated the Jaguars 43-37. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Two of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ more prominent free agents this offseason have now found jobs elsewhere. Defensive tackle Terrance Knighton has been reunited with former Jags head coach Jack Del Rio, now defensive coordinator, in Denver. Cornerback Derek Cox has found a spot with the San Diego Chargers, presumably replacing Antoine Cason.
Knighton was expected to get a big deal to remain with the Jaguars after cutting weight during his contract year, but with the replacement of the front office with GM Dave Caldwell, Knighton’s shot at staying with the team greatly diminished. Knighton was outplayed in 2012 by rotation man C.J. Mosley and has had his motivation questioned at times. When he is on his game he is a very good defensive tackle. When he is not on his game, however, he is not nearly as effective. Knighton and the Broncos have agreed on a two year deal for $4.5 million.
Cox, a starter since being brought to the Jaguars in 2009, has struggled with injuries throughout his career. He can be a shutdown corner at times and seems to be on the verge of jumping to elite status, but he has remained just an above average corner over the last two seasons. That, combined with his injuries, allowed the Jags to see letting Cox walk as a move they could handle. Cox has signed a four year deal with the Chargers worth $20 million.
I can handle seeing both Knighton and Cox walk away in free agency. They can both be replaced in this draft, possibly with better players.
– Luke N. Sims
Feel free to leave comments on here or visit us at Facebook or Twitter!
You can also find me on Twitter @LukeNSims