Ranking Jaguars positional needs on defense ahead of free agency

The Jaguars seem to be set at the safety position this offseason.

The Jaguars made several changes to their safety room last year. Even though they re-signed Josh Jones in the offseason, they release him, along with Jarrod Wilson, during the last round of roster cuts ahead of the regular season. In free agency, they signed Rudy Ford and Rayshawn Jenkins. The former moved to the slot and the latter started for most of the year opposite Andrew Wingard. Moreover, the Jags drafted Andre Cisdco out of Syracuse in the third round of the 2021 draft.

Jenkins suffered an ankle injury near the end of the season but he shouldn’t take his starting job for granted. He failed to make many impact plays last year and was ejected for throwing a punch during the Week 11 game against the San Francisco 49ers. Wingard should also compete for playing time next year. He missed tackles at a high rate and wasn’t much of a difference-maker whenever he was on the field.

On the other hand, Cisco may be the Jaguars’ safety with the highest ceiling. He and Daniel Thomas should get a realistic shot for starting roles next year. Heading into the free agency, it doesn’t look like the front office will make many additions to the position. Jacksonville is seen as a potential landing spot for Jayron Kearse this offseason but there may not be room for him in the Jags’ crowded safety room. If anything, they should wait until the later rounds of the draft to add a bit of depth.