JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jaguars have a lot to prove this season after missing their shot at the playoffs when they started the season 8-3.
When we're talking about defense, the Jaguars allowed 18 passing touchdowns to wide receivers. That was the fifth most in the NFL in 2023. That's according to ESPN.
It's no surprise. The AFC South is stacked with Calvin Ridley rocking the Titans blue, and the entire Houston Texans offense with C.J. Stroud behind the ball. The Jaguars defense needs to step up if they want any chance at leading the division. This is something fourth-year cornerback Tyson Campbell said is on his mind.
"I'm just trying to prove that I'm the player that I think I am and think I'm capable of being. Just staying healthy and hone in on my craft and play the best of my ability and the rest will take care of itself," Campbell said.
Campbell said he gained a few pounds of muscle during the offseason and there were skills he wanted to sharpen.
"Speed, sticky coverage, good tackler, physical, smart, playmaking and break up a pass, pick up a pass," he said.
In his fourth season in the NFL, he said the game is slowing down and now he's the one with experience to pass.
"It flew, man. Feel like yesterday I was a rookie. It feels good to have young guys asking you the questions and picking your brain about how to do certain things," Campbell said.
He added he's aware of the critics and what they have to say, but he's going to let his game talk.
Campbell is in the final year of his rookie contract, so he'll have to walk the walk this season.