The Jacksonville Jaguars announced on Monday that they have signed veteran safety Juan Thornhill to the practice squad.
So why did Jacksonville make this addition?
I believe there are a few answers to that question. For one, Jacksonville adds an experienced presence to the back end of their defense in what is a low-risk move.
Thornhill has appeared in 96 games over his career, making 75 starts at safety, and has played in 10 playoff games, while winning two Super Bowls.
Financially, there is relatively little commitment needed from the Jaguars, and if they have to move on from Thornhill at any point, they can do so.
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Beyond that, the safety position, particularly the depth, remains in flux for Jacksonville. The Jaguars have been without Eric Murray, who is on injured reserve, and have relied on Antonio Johnson to start next to Andrew Wingard.
Rookie Rayuan Lane and Kahlef Hailassie — who was waived on Monday — were the backup options at safety the last few weeks, but have very little defensive experience. Thornhill’s experience adds some stability to the back end of that position group.
The third reason that this addition makes sense is that defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile has utilized his share of three-safety looks this season. Thornhill provides another player to lean on in those situations and potentially a more reliable option as well, again, because of his ample NFL experience.
The Jaguars do have a roster opening after waiving Hailassie, which go to Thornhill. Otherwise, he can be elevated from the practice squad to the game day roster up to three times this season.
