Defensive Backs

Joe Haden hasn’t been healthy for the better part of the last two seasons, and will have a chance to turn things around in 2017. Haden won’t be alone in the backfield, as Jamar Taylor signed a three-year extension. Taylor earned praise for his play, specifically in the slot, after being acquired from Miami. Briean Boddy-Calhoun is also back after picking off three passes in six games as an undrafted rookie.

After initially looking to move to safety, Jason McCourty should join the trio at cornerback. The veteran has 13 interceptions in eight seasons in Tennessee.

Marcus Burley and Trey Caldwell both saw limited time in 2016; their chances will be helped by fourth-rounder Howard Wilson’s knee injury in the spring. J.D. Harmon, Alvin Hill, and Channing Stribling are all undrafted free agents.

The biggest addition in the defensive backfield was first-rounder Jabrill Peppers, who avoided a holdout by signing just before camp began. The Michigan product has been praised as an athlete, with many questioning where he fits in the pros. He’ll get a shot right away at safety.

The other safety spot will go to the winner of the battle between Ed Reynolds II and Calvin Pryor. Reynolds played in 10 games for the Browns last season. Pryor, like Peppers, is not known for his coverage skills. This should give Reynolds the leg up in the race against the former first-rounder.

Also competing at safety are Ibraheim Campbell, Caldwell, Derrick Kindred, and Kai Nacua. With the addition of Pryor, there will only be two spots for the group to compete for.  

Prediction: Haden and Taylor start at corner, with McCourty taking over the nickel role and sharing time at safety. Boddy-Calhoun and Trey Caldwell will take the final two spots. At safety, Peppers and Reynolds will start, joined by Pryor, Campbell, and Kindred. Expect quite a few pairings to emerge because of Peppers’ non-traditional role on defense.  

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