Cornerback was one of the biggest needs for the Jacksonville Jaguars in the offseason, so it wasn't particularly surprising to see them be linked to several prominent free agents earlier this year. Ultimately, they threw everyone a curveball when they signed Jourdan Lewis. So far, he's been everything the Jags expected, and the decision looks even better in light of recent news..
Carlton Davis was one of the top cornerbacks in this year's free agency. The New England Patriots gave him a three-year deal worth $54 million to pair him up with Christian Gonzalez. Unfortunately, it looks like they aren't getting enough bang for the buck.
Attending the offseason program is key for players joining a new team or learning a new system, but Karen Guregian of Mass Live reports that Davis was rarely a show until mandatory minicamp.
"Up until minicamp, Davis was largely invisible," Guregian wrote. "His absence, even during voluntary workouts, isn't a good look, especially going to a new team, and being a fortune."
Granted, Organized Team Activities and a good chunk of the offseason workouts are voluntary, but New England coach Mike Vabrel is known for wanting his players to show up.
Patriots voluntary offseason program starts today.
Mike Vrabel last week: “I write a letter voluntarily to the players to make sure that they voluntarily read it and voluntarily show up.”
— Phil Perry (@PhilAPerry) April 7, 2025
Now, Davis may have a valid reason to have missed the offseason workouts. Heck, he might turn out to be his usual self once the regular season starts. However, he's a veteran, one who's supposed to lead by example, and his absence certainly won't help him make a positive impression.
The Jaguars are surely thrilled they passed on Carlton Davis to ink Jourdan Lewis
Carlton Davis was a productive player throughout his six-year stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and his lone season with the Detroit Lions. You can make the case that he's better than Jourdan Lewis, but he was considerably more expensive and not nearly as versatile.
Although Lewis has mostly lined up in the slot throughout most of his career, he gives the Jaguars a potential starter in the boundaries opposite Tyson Campbell. And whether he plays inside or outside, he'll make an impact in Jacksonville. If that wasn't enough, the former Michigan Wolverine has quickly gotten acclimated to his new team and become a prominent locker room voice. Already, he's setting the tone, which is what you want from your veteran players.
The Jaguars have yet to take a snap in 2025, and it may be a bit early to tell, but it seems like they signed the right cornerback in free agency.
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