Each day for the next two weeks we’ll review how each position group performed in 2015 as well as taking an early look at 2016. Wednesday we’ll examine defensive backs. We’ve already done quarterback, running back, tight end, wide receiver, offensive line, defensive line and linebacker.
Defensive back
Breakdown of starts: Davon House (15), Aaron Colvin (15), Johnathan Cyprien (14), Josh Evans (12), Dwayne Gratz (4), Sergio Brown (4), Demetrius McCray (3), James Sample (1).
Recap: House was clearly the most productive defensive back. He intercepted four passes, broke up 23, and forced one fumble. The rest of the defensive backs combined for one interception, 18 pass breakups, and three forced fumbles. Colvin had a solid year in his first full season, breaking up seven passes, forcing one fumble, and recording 4.0 sacks, which was tied with defensive end Andre Branch for the second-most on the team, while splitting time between playing outside and inside. Cyprien had the only other interception among defensive backs. The safety positions weren’t very productive against the pass: Cyprien, Evans, Brown and Sample combined for just seven pass breakups. By the end of the season, Marshall had surpassed Gratz and McCray on the depth chart at corner.
Looking ahead to 2016
Players under contract: House, Colvin, Cyprien, Evans, Gratz, Brown, McCray, Sample, Peyton Thompson, Nick Marshall, Craig Loston.
The skinny: Finding a free safety is a priority for the Jaguars (along with a pass-rusher) in free agency and the draft. Names to watch include Eric Weddle, Reggie Nelson and Eric Berry. The Jaguars also need to add another starting cornerback. The Jaguars really like playing Colvin inside but started him outside because there weren’t better options. If the Jaguars can add those two pieces, that will allow them to play Cyprien in the box. That’s where he’s the most effective. The hope is the changes, plus a better pass rush, helps the secondary make more big plays.
