Tyson Campbell's return gives Jaguars defense much-needed spark vs. Patriots

Cornerback Tyson Campbell is trending toward playing against the New England Patriots in Week 7. A move the Jacksonville Jaguars just made before the game indicates that he's good to go.

The Jags announced that they've activated Campbell from the Reserve/Injured; Designated to Return list. They opened his 21-day window to return before Week 6, but he was ruled out for the game. The former Georgia Bulldog originally landed on IR after suffering a hamstring injury in the season opener.

Campbell was a limited participant in practice and got the questionable designation. However, head coach Doug Pederson told the local media Friday that the fourth-year cornerback should suit up against the Patriots.

A second-round pick in the 2021 draft, Campbell is one of the Jaguars' best defensive players. He struggled early as a rookie but progressively got better and ended up registering a team-best two interceptions. The Plantation, Florida native kept making strides in his sophomore campaign and joined the conversation about the top-10 corners in the league. However, a hamstring injury held him back for most of 2023.

But despite his injury-marred season, the Jags gave Campbell a four-year deal worth $76.5 million because they see him as a franchise building block.

Aside from activating Campbell, Jacksonville announced that it elevated running back Jake Funk and defensive end Joe Gaziano to the active roster via standard elevation for Week 7.

Funk's elevation may be a sign that running back Travis Etienne may not be good to go against New England. The 2021 first-round pick has been dealing with a hamstring injury and was listed as questionable for Week 7.

Tyson Campbell could be the boost the Jaguars defense needs

Calling the Jacksonville Jaguars' defense a disappointment seems fit. Despite making several important additions in free agency, the unit ranks 31st in points allowed and last in passing touchdowns surrendered. To make matters worse, there isn't one thing in particular that is holding the Jags back; the whole group is struggling.

The good news is that Tyson Campbell is one of many defenders, the team will get in the upcoming weeks. Linebacker Foyesade Oluokun, who's on the Injured Reserve while he deals with plantar fasciitis, could be back for Week 8. Safety Andrew Wingard could also return soon. The same is true for Tashaun Gipson, who's waiting to be reinstated by the NFL after serving a suspension for violations of the performance-enhancing drug policy.

With Campbell back in the fold, Doug Pederson told the press that the Jaguars could move Ronald Darby into a reserve role and keep Montaric Brown on the field. Darby has started all six games this season but has struggled.

Now, Tyson Campbell alone won't help the Jacksonville Jaguars beat the New England Patriots, but having him back surely gives the defense a boost they sorely need.

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