The Jacksonville Jaguars didn't make many big additions in free agency, but that's because they expect several players to either bounce back or keep making strides next season. That said, a handful of roster spots could be up for grabs, and several rookies could be in the running for them.
Specifically, the Jags are mostly set at cornerback, but one or two spots could be available. Devon Marshall and Preston Hodge could make a push but may ultimately come up short because of how heated the battle will potentially be.
Why the Jaguars may not keep Preston Hodge and Devon Marshall
Cornerback was seemingly a need early in the offseason because Greg Newsome and Montaric Brown were scheduled to become free agents. While Newsome did end up bolting for the New York Giants, the Jaguars brought back Brown on a three-year deal worth $31.5 million. Moreover, the team's brass made it clear that Travis Hunter would play defense full-time next season. With Jarrian Jones and Jourdan Lewis also in the mix, Jacksonville is almost set at corner.
Jabbar Muhammad, who made a strong impression in the offseason program, could nab the last spot, but veteran Christian Braswell won't give up without a fight.
Either way, it looks like Muhammad will get the fifth spot, but Braswell could stick around if the Jags carry six cornerbacks next season. That leaves Preston Hodge and Devon Marshall on the outside looking in ahead of training camp.
Preston Hodge and Devon Marshall have to step up in Jaguars training camp
Devon Marshall was seen as an undrafted sleeper with a realistic chance to make the roster because he lacks top-notch athleticism but has the tools to develop into a viable NFL player. The same is true for Preston Hodge, who was a ballhawk at Colorado. However, they're facing an uphill battle to make the team.
Four of the roster spots at cornerback are pretty much earmarked, and Jabbar Muhammad is the favorite to seize the other. Hodge and Marshall would need to outplay him in training camp to have a shot. However, that could turn out to be a massive challenge, since both of them still need to refine their skills.
Of course, you should never rule it out. But at this point, Hodge and Marshall appear to be long shots. Heck, the practice squad may be a more realistic outcome for the two of them. Then again, that's not necessarily a bad thing.
Muhammad went undrafted last year, spent his rookie season on the practice squad, and is now competing for a job on the initial 53-man roster. Hodge and Marshall could easily follow his footsteps.
Preston Hodge and Devon Marshall would be hyped up to make the roster as rookies, but the Jaguars can afford to have them sit and develop. And if they work hard and make the most of their chances, they'll have a legitimate shot to make the team next year.
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