Jaguars HC Doug Pederson believes CB group has plenty of potential

The Jacksonville Jaguars have a talented trio of starting cornerbacks in Shaquill Griffin, Tyson Campbell, and the newly-acquired Tyson Campbell. Moreover, the Jags selected Gregory Junior and Montaric Brown in this year’s NFL Draft. Speaking to the press today, head coach Doug Pederson expressed enthusiasm in regard to his cornerback group.

The team currently has Campbell and Griffin as their top two corners while Williams will most likely man the nickel slot. Between Griffin and Campbell, the duo accounted for 17 pass deflections, two interceptions, and a forced fumble. The potential is certainly there for this duo going into the 2022 season.

With OTAs underway, Williams is the newest addition to this group, and there are plenty of eyes on the newcomer. With a new philosophy under Pederson that’s built on competition at each position, Williams will likely be the team’s slot corner, but he’ll get a chance in camp to see if he can be more than just a nickel.

"A group that wants to get their hands on balls and really create some turnovers. It’s a group that has embraced the scheme a little bit — it’s another potential group that has a lot of potential. – Jaguars HC Doug Pederson on cornerback corps"

How much potential do the Jaguars’ cornerbacks really have in 2022?

Statistically speaking, Griffin and Campbell have the upside and potential, especially under Mike Caldwell, who’s now running the defense. Behind the two current starters, Caldwell will look to Tre Herndon and Chris Claybrooks while Montaric Brown and Gregory Junior are developed.

"I’m encouraged by that. I think Tyson is going to be a really good corner in this league. You know, and then to have a guy like Shaq as a leader, as a veteran guy, you know, to kind of lead that group. – Pederson on his cornerback duo"

The youth infusion that the Jaguars received during this year’s NFL draft will be key for this group moving forward, as Pederson will be relying on his duo to lead the way.

As Pederson also alluded to, the players are excited about the changes after Urban Meyer led them to a terrible season in 2021. Embracing this new scheme and culture will be paramount for all of the Jaguars’ position groups, not just the cornerbacks.