Breaking: Jaguars Closing In On Deal To Sign $19.1 Million Free-Agent CB

The Jacksonville Jaguars are projected to select a cornerback early in the 2024 NFL Draft, but may possibly prioritize other positions. If they do, signing veteran Adoree’ Jackson becomes an option. Jackson is currently a free agent and may provide the Jaguars with an immediate boost at the position.

Matt Holder suggests that each NFL team should sign one free agent, and Jackson is a suitable candidate. He realizes that the Jaguars have recently added Darnell Savage and Ronald Darby, but Jackson’s ability to play both inside and outside could come in handy.

“While the Jaguars have already made a couple of additions to their secondary this offseason by bringing in Ronald Darby and Darnell Savage, they could still use another cornerback and one who has the versatility to cover the slot.

Antonio Johnson is currently slated for that role but last year’s fifth-round pick is rather inexperienced after only getting171 snaps as a rookie.”

To clarify, Savage will play in the slot, while sophomore Antonio Johnson will play safety, his natural position. Nonetheless, Jackson brings a wealth of experience to the post.

Jackson, a first-round choice in 2017, played four NFL seasons with the Tennessee Titans before signing with the New York Giants in 2021. In 83 games, he has 65 passes defensed, five forced fumbles, and four interceptions. When healthy, the former USC Trojan is a capable starter. As late as 2022, he had an overall Pro Football Focus grade of 72.2 while allowing 11.7 yards per reception. The year prior, he allowed 8.9 yards per reception.

The trouble, as Holder pointed out, is that Jackson has had trouble staying healthy. In 2020, a knee injury limited him to just three games, and he missed a total of 13 the past three years.

Adoree’ Jackson could help the Jaguars, but they can wait to sign him

All things considered, adding Adoree’ Jackson would be a nice depth move with low risk. However, the Jacksonville Jaguars should not expect more from him. Maybe this is the year he finally stays healthy, but the Jaguars can’t count on that. Nonetheless, he would make an excellent CB4 behind Ronald Darby, Tyson Campbell, and Darnell Savage, especially if he contracts for the veteran minimum.

But, as attractive as signing Jackson might be, the Jaguars do not need to make a decision right now. The draft is almost approaching, and they may want to add depth in later rounds. Furthermore, they will be in a position to draft one of the top talents at No. 17. If they go that path, bringing Jackson in is probably unnecessary.

If the Jaguars are unable to secure the prospects they want early in the draft, it makes sense to sign Jackson. For his part, he would have the opportunity to rehabilitate his stock while playing for defensive backs coach Kris Richard, who is known for getting the most out of his athletes.

In the end, it’s hard to see the Jaguars signing Adoree’ Jackson before the draft. However, it would most definitely make sense to give him a call if they miss out on the draft prospects they like or in case the injury bug strikes in the summer.