The Jacksonville Jaguars will probably continue to make upgrades at cornerback in the 2025 NFL Draft, even though they signed Jourdan Lewis in free agency. Having said that, the Las Vegas Raiders might've just gifted them a depth piece that will allow them to turn their attention to other positions.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Media broke the news that the Las Vegas Raiders were going to release cornerback Jack Jones after failing to find a trade partner. They announced the moves not long after.
After a tumultuous stint with the New England Patriots that included a suspension, Jones joined the Silver & Black in the midpoint of the 2023 season. Right off the bat, he had an immediate impact, playing a massive role in the Kansas City Chiefs upset at Arrowhead stadium.
Expected to build off a promising first season with the Raiders, Jones was instead inconsistent in 2024, registering three interceptions while giving up seven receiving touchdowns. Couple that with the fact that he antagonized fans following a loss, and he was going to be a long shot to return next season.
Jones is now a free agent and should garner interest now that clubs don't have to give up compensation to land him. He's appeared in 42 games with 21 starts, registering seven interceptions and 22 passes defensed.
In Jacksonville, Jones would join a group that includes Tyson Campbell, Jarrian Jones, Jourdan Lewis, Montaric Brown, and DeAntre Prince.
Related story: 4 free-agents who will have a big impact for the Jaguars in 2025
Why the Jaguars should take a flyer on Jack Jones before the draft
General manager James Gladstone said that the Jacksonville Jaguars aren't planning to make further free-agent signings before the 2025 NFL Draft. He was specifically talking about the defensive line, but that will most likely be the case for every position. It will be a bit surprising to see them deviate from their vision, but taking a flyer on Jack Jones most definitely deserves consideration.
There's no denying that Jones has been inconsistent and routinely showed a lack of maturity. Having said that, he would give the Jags a talented depth piece and insurance at cornerback. By having him in the fold, they wouldn't have to reach on Days 1 and 2 of the draft and would have the flexibility to address other positions.
But even if the team's brass drafted another cornerback, Jones could compete for a roster spot in training camp. Worst-case scenario, he gets his walking papers. Best case? He raises the depth floor at cornerback. With Jourdan Lewis, Jarrian Jones, and Tyson Campbell slated to start, he would be CB4. Granted, he would compete with Montaric Brown, but you could make the case that he's the better of them.
On the off chance that Jones lost to Brown, who's also dealt with inconsistency, it will show that the latter deserves to be the top reserve.
Ultimately, the Jaguars don't lose anything by giving Jack Jones a shot and could instead land a pretty good depth piece.