Grading all Jaguars moves, including the Arik Armstead signing, in free agency
Mitch Morse, center
2-years, $10.5 M
This was a good year to sign a center in free agency. The Jaguars went with Mitch Morse, who previously played for head coach Doug Pederson when he was the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2015.
Morse spent four years with the Chiefs before signing with the Buffalo Bills in 2019. He says his familiarity with Pederson played a role in choosing Jacksonville. The former Mizzou Tiger gave up just one sack last year. He will most likely be the Day 1 starter at center, replacing incumbent Luke Farrell.
By signing Morse, the Jaguars address their biggest need in the offensive trenches. Moreover, his presence gives them the flexibility to acquire a young center and develop behind him this year or next.
Grade: A
Gabe Davis, wide receiver
3-year, $39 M
The Jaguars got a deep threat in Gabe Davis and they didn't have to break the bank. While Calvin Ridley left and there's still a chance Zay Jones will be a cap casualty in 2024, Davis' ability to get Christian Kirk and Evan Engram operate in the middle of the field. His career average of 16.7 yards per catch should have Trevor Lawrence salivating about his big-play capability.
That said, Davis has never had more than 600 yards in a season, so expectations should be tempered. He isn't a WR1 but could be an important piece of the Jaguar's offensive puzzle. It will be up to offensive coordinator Press Taylor to get the most out of Davis' skill set.
Grade: B
Ezra Cleveland, offensive guard
3-year, $24 M
The first big move the Jags made in free agency, signing Ezra Cleveland to a three-year deal gives them at last the stability they lacked at left guard last year. Cleveland arrived via trade but injuries prevented him from hitting his stride.
Prior to joining the Jags, Cleveland had made 49 starts for the Minnesota Vikings. In Jacksonville, he reunited with Phil Rauscher, his position coach in Minnesota. It's fair to assume that a full offseason and a clean bill of health will help him perform much better in 2024.
Grade: B