Identifying practice squad options on the Jacksonville Jaguars roster for 2023 season

Jaguars 2023 practice squad predictions: Defense

Christian Braswell, Kaleb Hayes, cornerbacks (2)

The Jags have a crowded cornerback room. The three top spots will go to Tre Herndon, Tyson Campbell and Darious Williams while sophomores Greg Junior and Montaric Brown should get extended playing time. Chris Claybrooks also seems to have secured a roster spot.

This would leave rookies Christian Braswell and Kaleb Hayes on the outside looking in. Braswell flashed potential in the preseason while Hayes could turn into a solid slot cornerback. Keeping both around could pay off down the road.

Caleb Johnson, linebacker

Jacksonville is loaded at inside linebacker, which makes Caleb Johnson a long shot to make the 53-man roster. Still, injuries can deplete a unit in the blink of an eye, so keeping Caleb Johnson in the practice squad makes sense.

Michael Dogbe, defensive end

Jeremiah Ledbetter will need to step up during DaVon Hamilton's absence while he recovers from a non-football back injury. Ledbetter, a fourth-round pick by the Detroit Lions in 2017, has worked on his craft this offseason and has probably secured a roster spot over Michael Dogbe, a protege of defensive line coach Brentson Bucker. That said, Dogbe has experience and come off the bench at any time, so there's value in giving him a spot in the practice squad.

Daniel Thomas, safety

The fact that Daniel Thomas has starting experience could help him earn a roster post. However, rookies Antonio Johnson and Erick Hallet II might have more upside, so it wouldn't be shocking if either one or both make the cut. In case Thomas is left out, he can then join the practice squad.

James McCourt, kicker

Brandon McManus is slated to handle kicking duties in 2023 and if he can be his efficient self, the Jaguars won't have to worry about the kicker position next season. But if he shows a decline or has to miss time, James McCourt could be a capable replacement.

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