Jacksonville Jaguars: 5 cornerbacks to target ahead of 2021 trade deadline

Jacksonville Jaguars CB trade target No. 2 – Avonte Maddox

Heading into the 2021 season, Avonte Maddox didn’t know where he would play in Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Johathan Gannon’s scheme. At the time, there was a chance he could play safety but ended up lining in the slot with encouraging results, posting an outstanding Pro Football Focus overall grade of 90.1.

Even though Maddox has given up a 68.2 percent completion rate, he’s allowing just six yards per completion. This means that he isn’t surrendering big plays. This is particularly surprising because he was one of the worst outside cornerbacks in the NFL last season, giving up 13 yards per reception and earning a 57.5 PFF overall grade. Gannon got it right and found a position that suits Maddox’s 5-foot-9 frame better.

The 2018 fourth-round pick would give the Jaguars’ secondary a boost and would challenge incumbent Tre Herndon for slot duties right out of the gate. It’s uncertain if the Eagles would want to trade Maddox but they should be open to listening to proposals. The Jaguars could offer a mid-round selection, maybe a fourth or even a third if that’s what it takes to land the fourth-year cornerback.

If Philly isn’t interested in shopping Maddox, Steven Nelson is another alternative. The Oregon State product signed with the Eagles earlier this year and lines up in the boundaries. He has gone on to start every single game this season. He’s logged four passes defensed and one interception. The downside is he’s given up two touchdowns.