4 big questions the Jaguars must answer after the 2024 NFL Draft
• They've still have work left to do
• The front office must answer these 5 questions
3. Will the Jaguars pursue a veteran cornerback before the 2023 season?
Cornerback was arguably the Jaguars' biggest need ahead of the draft. This is why it was a bit puzzling to see them waiting until Round 3 to address the position. Heck, no cornerback had been selected yet when they were on the clock at No. 17, but instead of going after Terrion Arnold or Quinyon Mitchell, they moved down six spots and selected wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.
Make no mistake, Thomas is a fine player, and so is Maason Smith, the Jags' second-round pick. That said, they should've prioritized the cornerback position. Jarrian Smith and Deantre Prince could end up becoming key contributors down the stretch but they're currently unproven commodities.
Tyson Campbell and Ronald Darby are projected to start but both will enter the season with questions. Will Campbell make the adjustment to Ryan Nielsen's press-heavy scheme? Can Darby, who has only started one full season in his career, stay healthy? There's a chance they'll be fine but the Jags should err on the side of caution in case either one falters.
Right now, the top backup at the position is third-year pro Montaric Brown. He's been reliable but is better suited for a reserve role. Christian Braswell flashed as a rookie but needs to show out before he gets consideration for a bigger workload. That's why it wouldn't hurt Jacksonville to look for outside options to bolster the position.
Marshon Lattimore could be a potential trade candidate after the New Orleans Saints drafted Kool-Aid McKinstry. They say they're not actively looking to deal Lattimore but that doesn't mean they're not listening to offers. In fact, it wouldn't be shocking to see them release Lattimore in a cap-saving move if they cannot find a trade partner. That said, the former LSU Tiger isn't the only option the Jags could pursue.
Stephon Gilmore, Xavier Howard, and Adoree' Jackson all remain unsigned after becoming free agents or being released earlier this year. It costs nothing to bring any of them for a workout and do due diligence.
Maybe the team's brass first want to see what they have in their current group of corners. Tha'ts fine, but that shouldn't stop them from making upgrades at the position if needed.