With the opt out deadline set for Thursday, 4 p.m. EST, the Jacksonville Jaguars were informed of another opt out. Veteran cornerback Rashaan Melvin will be sitting out the 2020 season due to concerns about the coronavirus pandemic.
#Jaguars CB Rashaan Melvin has opted out of the 2020 season
— šš”š¢š„ šš¦š¢šš” š (@PhiltheFilipino) August 6, 2020
Melvin, 30, was expected to compete for a starting cornerback spot by many due to having 40 career starts. However, his decision will now give Tre Herndon an easy path to be the Jags’ No. 2 cornerback alongside first-round pick C.J. Henderson.
Melvin had been a journeyman heading into 2020, making notable stops with the Baltimore Ravens, New England Patriots, Detroit Lions, and Indianapolis Colts amongst notables. Had he decided to play in 2020, this season would’ve been his eighth and he would’ve entered his Jags tenure with 243 career tackles, three picks, and 41 pass breakups.
Although the group is young and inexperienced, the Jags had good numbers at the cornerback position and Melvin’s decision will also increase the chances for undrafted rookies Kobe Williams, Amari Henderson, or Luq Barcoo to get a roster spot.
Melvin is now the third player to opt out for the Jags. He joins veteran linebacker and defensive end Lerentee McCray and nose tackle Al Woods with his decision.
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