Ranking Jacksonville Jaguars potential free agents in 2023

Ranking Jacksonville Jaguars potential FAs: Middle of the pack II

9. Corey Peters, defensive tackle

At 33, defensive tackle Corey Peters showed in 2022 that he still has plenty of gas in the tank. A third-round pick by the Atlanta Falcons, the former Kentucky Wildcat joined the Jags’ practice squad in September and later signed to their active roster.

Peter posted a Pro Football Focus overall grade of 86.2 against the Tennesse Titans in the finale and Doug Pederson praised him for having a great game. Like Gotsis, Peters is an important part of the Jags’ defensive line rotation, which make a potential return in 2023 possible.

8. Riley Patterson, kicker

The Jags had a revolving door at kicker throughout most of the offseason and trying camp. After cutting ties with Matthew Wright, the front office signed Ryan Santoso, Andrew Mevis, and Elliot Fry but none of them proved to be the answer.

Near the end of the preseason, Jacksonville claimed James McCourt off waiver. McCourt originally made the 53-man roster but was released (and later added to the practice squad) in favor of Riley Patterson, who lost a competition with Austin Seibert for the Detroit Lions kicker job.

Patterson has brought stability at kicker, so it’s hard to see the Jaguars moving on from him. He’s an exclusive rights free agent, so he can be back on a one-year deal.

7. Chris Manhertz, tight end

Tight end Christ Manhertz was signed for his blocking prowess in 2021, and that’s the role he’s filled over the last two seasons. The Canisius product has appeared in 34 games with 21 starts for the Black and Teal.

Manherts has only tallied 12 catches for the Jaguars but his presence allows the offense to run smoothly. He could return on a team-friendly contract.