Jaguars signing of Gabe Davis could mean Calvin Ridley is gone

The Jacksonville Jaguars are getting off to a strong start to free agency, agreeing to terms with wide receiver Gabe Davis during the tampering period. This isn't particularly shocking news, as Calvin Ridley is hitting the open market and there was no guarantee he would re-sign with the Jags. By locking up Davis, the Jags may have shown they're ready to let Ridley walk.

Jacksonville is signing Davis for three years, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media. Later, Dianna Rusinni of The Athletic reported that the contract is worth $39 million but could go up to $50 million with incentives.

In Davis, the Jaguars are getting a deep threat that can draw away coverage from other receivers. He previously played for receivers coach Chad Hall, and that familiarity may've made him gravitate toward signing with the Jags.

A fourth-round pick by the Bills in 2020, Davis showed big-play capability early in his career, averaging 17.1 yards per reception as a rookie. Although he has never topped 1,000 yards in a season, he's been highly productive, especially the past two years, hauling in a combined 93 receptions for 1,582 yards with 14 touchdowns.

With Davis in the fold, the Jaguars may be bracing themselves for the possibility of losing Calvin Ridley. His return shouldn't be ruled out just yet but it's unlikely when you take into account that they also have Zay Jones and Christian Kirk. Simply put, it's hard to see the Jaguars bring Ridley back after having poured so many resources into their wide receiver corps unless they move on from Zay Jones, who was seen as a potential cap casualty ahead of free agency.

In fact, the New England Patriots, the Carolina Panthers, and the Tennessee Titans will pursue Calvin Ridley. Maybe the Jaguars' brass thought they couldn't compete with them and opted to target Gabe Davis.

What's next for the Jaguars after signing Gabe Davis?

If Calvin Ridley signs with another team, the Jaguars will get to keep their second-round pick. Had they given him an extension before the start of free agency, they would've had to give it to the Atlanta Falcons as part of the deal they made when they traded for him. Instead, they'll send them a third-round pick, as he met playing time conditions last year.

By signing Gabe Davis, the Jaguars may have Ridley's future replacement, and they didn't have to overspend to do it. Based on his past production and potential salary, this was a solid signing.

Also, the Jaguars took care of the center spot by locking up Mitch Morse. Now, their biggest needs are cornerback and the pass rush. Having released Darious Williams, they need a starter in the boundaries opposite Tyson Campbell. On the other hand, they'll need to get a No. 3 pass rusher if K'Lavon Chaisson and Dawuane Smoot leave in free agency.

All things considered, the Jaguars are having a solid free agency period. Besides bringing key contributors, they've addressed a couple needs and they didn't have to overpay. That said, more moves could be coming soon in the upcoming days, so stay tuned for more updates.

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