The Jacksonville Jaguars strengthened their wide receiver group by drafting Dyami Brown and Travis Hunter during the offseason, positioning themselves well in that area. However, given the release of Justyn Ross by the Kansas City Chiefs, a former receiver who caught passes from Trevor Lawrence at Clemson, the Jaguars could benefit from offering him a training camp opportunity as they seek additional depth.
Justyn Ross, who went undrafted in 2022, signed with the Chiefs and participated in 12 games, including one start, recording six receptions for 53 yards. Despite this modest contribution, the Chiefs decided to release him shortly after acquiring rookie Justin Royals and with JuJu Smith-Schuster returning, signaling limited space for Ross on their roster.
Ross’s collegiate performance was impressive, with 158 receptions, 2,379 yards, and 20 touchdowns across three seasons playing with Trevor Lawrence at Clemson. Nevertheless, injuries have severely impacted his progress at the professional level. He missed the entire 2020 college season due to a back condition and broke his foot the following year, factors that contributed to him going undrafted. His struggles continued in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL when a foot injury sidelined him during his rookie year with the Chiefs.
Despite the Chiefs’ receiver challenges in the previous season, Ross was unable to establish himself as a key contributor, which raises questions about his immediate value. Still, his prior chemistry with Lawrence and potential ability warrant giving him a chance with the Jaguars.
The Case for Ross to Receive a Chance with the Jaguars
For Justyn Ross to revive his NFL career, demonstrating improved health is essential, and a new environment might provide the fresh start he needs. The Jaguars have a wide receiver depth chart that already includes secured roles for Dyami Brown, Brian Thomas Jr., Travis Hunter, and Parker Washington, but there may be one or two additional roster spots available for competition.
Veteran receiver Trenton Irwin appears to be a likely contender for one opening, while Ross could vie for another spot. At present, other receivers such as Austin Trammell, Joshua Cephus, Louis Rees-Zammit, and several undrafted free agents have not distinguished themselves before the start of training camp. Ross’s previous connection with Trevor Lawrence could boost his chances of catching the quarterback’s passes and finding a rhythm.
Offering Ross a training camp invitation poses minimal risk to the Jaguars. If he demonstrates progress and stays healthy, he could provide valuable depth for the team’s receiving corps. Conversely, if he fails to secure a role, the Jaguars can part ways without significant consequences.
Ultimately, inviting Justyn Ross to compete during training camp represents a prudent move for Jacksonville as they seek to add capable players without extensive investment or risk, especially considering his past performance with Lawrence at Clemson and the current state of their receiver roster.