10 realistic free agents the Jacksonville Jaguars can sign (and afford) in 2024

1. Gabe Davis, wide receiver

One of the biggest questions surrounding the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason is whether they'll be able to keep Calvin Ridley, who's scheduled to become a free agent. But even if the Jags manage to re-sign Ridley, they could use help at wide receiver. Zay Jones, who signed a three-year deal worth $24 million in 2022, could be a cap casualty and if he's released, the Jags would then need to look for his replacement.

The team's brass could very well target a wide receiver in the draft. At No. 17, they'll have several options, including but not limited to Keon Coleman Rome Odunze and Brian Thomas Jr., who's been mocked to Jacksonville several times.

The issue with drafting a receiver, especially one early in the first round, is that there's no telling whether he'll be able to contribute right off the bat. So if the Jaguars are looking for a proven commodity, they should instead dip their toes in free agency.

Tee Higgins wouldn't be a realistic option since the Cincinnati Bengals are expected to use the franchise tag on him. Similarly, Mike Evans will command a top-market contract, one that might exceed the team's budget. So who should the Jaguars pursue in free agency? There are a few appealing choices, including K.J., Osborn, Tyler Boyd (Higgins' teammate), and Gabe Davis. Of the bunch, Davis makes the most sense as Jones' potential replacement.

Davis, a fourth-round pick by the Buffalo Bills in 2020, has averaged 16.7 yards per reception throughout his career. Even though he's caught a combined 92 receptions the past two years, he's tallied 1,582 yards and 14 touchdowns in that span. The Jaguars could use a deep threat like Davis opposite Ridley.

Having said that, it's not a given that the Jaguars will move on from Jones. Injuries limited him to just eight games and 34 receptions for 321 yards with two touchdowns in 2023. However, he set career bests for catches and receiving yards the year prior. If the top brass thinks he can bounce back, they will then stick with him, rendering the potential acquisition of Gabe Davis unnecessary.

Here are more stories from Black & Teal: