After re-signing Montaric Brown, cornerback is no longer a pressing need for the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, that shouldn't stop the team's brass from adding depth at the position in the upcoming months.
The Jags could address another need in Round 2 and use one of their other draft picks on a cornerback prospect. Just recently, they were connected to San Diego State's Chris Johnson in a mock draft, but there are also a few veterans still available in the open market. Back in 2024, Jacksonville showed interest in one of them. It could be a good idea to check back on him.
L'Jarius Sneed gives the Jaguars an intriguing free-agent bet at corner
After releasing Darious Williams in 2024, the Jaguars needed a boundary corner to line up opposite Tyson Campbell. Before zeroing in on Ronald Darby, they were reportedly interested in trading for L'Jarious Sneed, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs.
At the time, Sneed got the franchise tag, but the Chiefs were open to trading him. The Tennessee Titans ended up acquiring him in exchange for a third-round pick and a swap of seventh-round selections, even though Kansas City originally wanted a second-rounder. With the benefit of hindsight, though, this is surely a trade the Titans regret making.
Expected to be a game-altering talent in Tennessee, Sneed instead struggled the past two seasons. In 2024, his Pro Football Focus overall grade ranked last among 117 qualifying corners. Last year, he improved but just marginally, finishing 105th out of 114.
In Sneed's defense, he had trouble staying healthy during his stint with the Titans. Then again, availability is the best ability in the NFL, and if you cannot suit up on game day, it doesn't matter how good you are. This led the Tennessee to cut its losses and move on from the veteran corner before the start of free agency.
By now, you may be wondering why the Jaguars should take a flyer on L'Jarius Sneed if he was dreadful with Tennessee. The answer is simple: before he was traded, he was a pretty good corner for Kansas City, giving up 10.2 yards per reception while registering two interceptions in 2023.
Why the Jaguars need to consider signing L'Jarius Sneed
Sneed could most definitely benefit from a fresh start, and if he's healthy, he may just be able to become the cornerback he was with the Chiefs. Couple that with the fact that his stock isn't particularly high right now, and he could give Jacksonville an intriguing depth piece.
With the Jags, Sneed wouldn't start and would instead sit behind Travis Hunter and Montaric Brown. Aside from being a depth piece, he could also spell Hunter, who'll play on defense full-time in 2026 but will continue to line up at receiver.
Moreover, signing Sneed would allow the front office to address other needs in the NFL Draft. While the cornerback position could use reinforcements, the interior defensive line and the pass rusher are bigger priorities. With Sneed in the fold, the Jags could take care of both.
The Jaguars have steer clear of signing players in this free-agent cycle, but if they're looking for a reclamation project, L'Jarius Sneed gives them an intriguing option.