Jalen Ramsey was too good for the Jacksonville Jaguars to pass up. Some called the Florida State defensive back the best prospect in the Draft. He’s now going to be a part of one of the league’s most improved teams.
The Jaguars spent heavily on the defensive side of the ball this offseason. The team signed Malik Jackson (Denver Broncos), Tashaun Gipson(Cleveland Browns), and Prince Amukamara(New York Giants) to deals that will surely solidify a once-depleted defense. The addition of Ramsey further strengthens Jacksonville, and could make them one of the best defensive units in the NFL for years to come.
Ramsey was the first Seminoles cornerback to start all 14 games as a true freshman since Deion Sanders in 1985. That should give you a perfect snap shot of the type of player Ramsey can be.
He’s a big time playmaker, and the Jaguars are desperately seeking a true number one cornerback.
The Jags are going to be without the services of Aaron Colvin for the first four games of the 2016 NFL season, as he was suspended by the league for a violation of the league’s performance enhancing drug policy.
This means Ramsey has a chance at getting legitimate time with the team right off the bat.
It’s expected that Amukamara and Davon House will serve as the starting cornerbacks for the Jaguars to start the season. However, as Colvin serves his four game suspension, it’s entirely possible that Ramsey sees some time at nickel corner. If he succeeds in that role he very well could challenge Colvin for more playing time during his debut seals
It’s not uncommon for a rookie cornerback to sit for a good portion of their first year. Joe Haden started only 7 games for the Cleveland Browns during his rookie season, and Richard Sherman started only 10. The development time is key to NFL success, especially at cornerback.
Jacksonville would be wise to bring Ramsey along slowly. Amukamara is only signed to a one-year deal, so it’s plausible that the team transitions Ramsey into the full time role as the season progresses.
One thing Ramsey possess is a winning attitude. That was certainly on display Draft night, as he spoke to the media for the first time as a Jaguar.
I’m so excited right now,” Ramsey said, adding, “At the end of the day, I feel like I’m a winner. I feel I can bring that to Jacksonville.”
The Jaguars are in a good place with the addition of Ramsey. They now have what could be football’s best cornerback in a few years time. The key now is patience. There is no reason to rush Ramsey along. The team has a formidable group of corners with House and Amukamara, so they organization can take its time developing Ramsey.
The ultimate goal in Jacksonville is to build a contender, and they took a big step forward on Draft night.