Jacksonville Jaguars: Jalen Ramsey should be in training camp soon
By Larry Brake
Jalen Ramsey has not checked into the Jacksonville Jaguars training camp yet, but should be in soon.
Training camp opened last week without the Jacksonville Jaguars top cornerback, Jalen Ramsey. He is still in Tennessee tending to family matters due to the birth of his daughter. The preseason football slate is around the corner so, Ramsey will be in soon.
There is no question that Ramsey is an elite NFL cornerback. However, he missed the voluntary organized team activities this offseason. No doubt that his daughter’s pending birth influenced his decision to skip. The Jaguars gave him their blessing.
Ramsey is the ultimate professional. He is in shape but is not really acclimated to being in pads. As physical as he plays, Ramsey will recognize the need to get practice reps in pads and into game speed.
Jacksonville opens the preseason games on Aug. 9. The New Orleans Saints will be in town. Wouldn’t it be cool to see Ramsey pick off a Drew Brees pass? That is why you should expect Ramsey into camp this week. Ramsey thrives on top competition each game. Notice how he gets under opposing receivers’ skin?
In the meanwhile, several players have played well in Ramsey’s absence. Tyler Patmon is garnering much attention because of his play. Mike Kaye of firstcoastnews.com reported Doug Marrone’s remarks:
"“I think that [Patmon has] done a nice job,” Jaguars head coach Doug Marrone said Saturday. “He has made plays on the outside, and he has also been doing a good job on special teams. That was something that we stressed with him in the offseason, and he has responded to that. That is something where he showed he has the ability to be in a position to do that, …”"
Also, D.J. Hayden is making plays. Hayden signed this spring to battle for the nickel corner spot. This is going to become a tough competition between Patmon and Hayden. Remember this, no matter how well they play, Ramsey is that much better.
It’s alright if Ramsey takes him time checking into camp. His football career will last a short amount of time compared to a lifetime of being a father. Ramsey will be in camp soon.