Examining the Jaguars’ Options at Defensive Back

Examining the Jaguars’ Options at Defensive Back

If Brown’s asking price is too high, or the Jaguars want to move in a different direction, they will have options in free agency. Tariq Woolen of the Seattle Seahawks is one of the top free-agent defensive backs on the market and would serve the Jaguars’ defensive backfield well. Woolen played in a defense that ran the third-highest rate of zone coverage in the NFL, but also showed the ability to play in man coverage. In 2025, he defended 12 passes and allowed a career-best 8.9 yards per completion and 75.5 passer rating when targeted. His physicality, vertical and closing speed, and ball skills give him a complete skill set regardless of the scheme being run, and opposite Travis Hunter, he has the potential to form one of the best defensive back rooms in the NFL.

Woolen would be the expensive home run player that may be difficult to acquire. A more under-the-radar player that would cost the Jaguars significantly less money is James Pierre of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Unlike Woolen, Pierre played in a scheme that ran the fourth-most man coverage, and he excelled in his limited role. In 2025, he defended 11 passes, allowed a 41.4 passer rating, and 8.7 yards per completion, all the best of his career.

Pierre is a riskier signing as he heads into his seventh season and will turn 30 in September. However, in 2025, he played a career-high of just 38% of defensive snaps. The lack of wear and tear on his body will allow him to age better than other players. The Jaguars will need a corner that can excel in man coverage, and Pierre can do that. He would also not be relied upon as the team’s best corner, and he will cost significantly less than other free agents.

Travis Hunter is expected to take a leap and showcase his abilities as a top-flight corner. Jourdan Lewis and Jarrian Jones have shown they are more than capable of handling the slot position, placing added importance on the second outside cornerback spot. The Jaguars will have a decision to make regarding Montaric Brown. If he leaves in free agency, the position will have to be addressed with an experienced veteran or in the NFL draft. With a young core and raised expectations, the Jaguars will need to find stability at a premier position.