Jaguars can get a foundational cornerback in Asante Samuel Jr.
By CJ Errickson
The Jacksonville Jaguars drafted former Florida Gator cornerback C.J. Henderson with the ninth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and should consider bolstering their cornerback room and use a selection on Florida State defensive back Asante Samule Jr.
Henderson showed moments of brilliance with the Jaguars in his rookie season; however, his inaugural NFL campaign was cut short after a groin injury placed him on injured reserve after only eight games played. Aside from him, the Black and Teal possess a void at the cornerback position as they enter the 2021 offseason. With free agency on the horizon in two weeks’ notice, the team may decide to dip into the cornerback market for a veteran.
Nevertheless, the ‘Jags’ cannot solely rely on building their secondary with veterans. Reluctantly, the 2021 NFL Draft bears a myriad of talented cornerbacks. Specifically for Jacksonville, Florida State Seminoles defensive back Asante Samuel Jr., is one of the best prospects in the draft, according to many scouts and pundits.
Asante Samuel Jr. can immediately help the Jacksonville Jaguars secondary.
The son of four-time NFL Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel, The Florida State product proved that he possesses the same traits (and maybe more) that made his father one of the best NFL cornerbacks in recent history. The younger Samuel consistently presented himself as one of the best collegiate corners in coverage the past two seasons.
Asante Samuel Jr. is on the smaller side (5-10, 184), but his speed/quicks are great.
— Austin Gayle (@austingayle_) July 20, 2020
He's sticky in coverage with football IQ that stands out, also very aggressive/strong tackler — big fan of his game. pic.twitter.com/GJo8pBe3tB
Despite only standing at approximately 5’10”, Samuel possesses an uncanny ability to stick with opposing receivers. In 2019 and 2020, he combined for four interceptions and 20 passes defensed, which allowed him to make the All-ACC team in both seasons. The Seminole standout possesses the versatility to play both at the nickel and outside cornerback positions, which NFL teams covet. Finally, many would presume his smaller stature would make him hesitant as a run defender, which could not be any further from the truth.
In conclusion, the Jaguars would be wise to target Asante Samuel Jr. in the late first-round or early second round of next month’s NFL draft. He is an aggressive and highly instinctual player who would pair well with C.J. Henderson for years to come in Jacksonville.