Ranking Jaguars positional needs on defense ahead of free agency

The Jaguars need to add depth to their cornerback room in free agency.

The Jaguars made a couple of additions to their cornerback room last offseason and the two of them turned out to be really good. First, they signed Shaquill Griffin in free agency and later selected Tyson Campbell 33rd overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. Both went on to start from Day 1 and should have the same role in 2022. On the other hand, Rudy Ford was a surprising acquisition last year.

Originally a safety, Ford signed with the Jags last offseason and moved to the slot in the middle of the season with positive reviews. Tre Herndon was expected to be the team’s nickel cornerback but an MCL injury he suffered in the preseason slowed him down throughout most of the year. He’s set to become a free agent and could return on a one-year deal.

Chris Claybrooks started a couple of games when injured struck Jacksonville’s cornerback room. If Campbell or Griffin remain healthy next season, Claybrooks may not see the field much. Veteran Nevin Lawson is also slated to walk in free agency, so it wouldn’t hurt the Jags to add depth in free agency. Maybe they could roll the dice on someone like Bryce Callahan or Charvarius Ward. Neither player will command a big-market contract and both of them were among Pro Football Focus’ top 10 free-agent cornerbacks in 2022.