The Jacksonville Jaguars are fortunate, compared to other NFL franchises this offseason, in that the majority of their impact players are returning under contract. Let us continue our series of going position by position and looking ahead to the 2018 season and go over who the Jaguars have, where they could upgrade, and how much they’re spending at these various positions (2018 cap hits).

Next, let’s look at the back end of the defense and the Cornerback positions.

Starters

The Jacksonville Jaguars have arguably the best cornerback tandem in the NFL with Jalen Ramsey and A.J. Bouye. Bouye was a high-priced free agent acquisition in 2017 and he did not disappoint, being named to the Pro Bowl in his first season with the Jaguars. Ramsey on the other hand was a standout his rookie season and in Year 2 pushed himself even further earning not only a Pro Bowl selection, but also being named First Team All Pro. Combined Ramsey and Bouye will cost the Jaguars just under $22 million in 2018 against the salary cap, which quite frankly is a bargain.

Potential loss

The Jaguars Secondary is very likely to take a hit this offseason however, with Aaron Colvin’s contract expiring. Colvin has been a good player for the Jaguars since being drafted in the fourth round, though it clearly appears the team views him as a nickel/inside corner only. Colvin is likely going to want to test the open market and prove that he can play outside, which is where the money and glory is, which means the Jaguars probably let him walk. Colvin is a good player, though I tend to think is way overrated by fans, but I think the Jaguars secondary is strong enough as a whole that they can replace what he brings to the table for much cheaper. If he’s re-signed, that’s great too.

Depth

This is the real area of concern in the Jaguars secondary, especially if Colvin walks in free agency. The depth for the cornerback position consists of Tyler Patmon, Jalen Myrick and Peyton Thompson. All three are capable in a pinch, but the uneasiness comes if either of Bouye or Ramsey go down for any period of time. This, plus the likelihood of Colvin leaving makes me think cornerback could be a position the Jaguars target early in the draft. While many will be tempted to slot in a TE or an OL at the 29th pick, I think a sneaky selection could be a cornerback.