The additions of defensive end Marcellus Wiley and cornerback Kenny Wright would seem to give the Jaguars the veteran insurance they need at two critical positions, allowing the team to step into April with a clear focus on the NFL Draft.
A six-year veteran who played for the Houston Texans the past three seasons, Wright signed a one-year, minimum-wage deal with the Jaguars on Thursday. Wright, 6-1, 207, addresses a need at right corner, where last year's starter, Dewayne Washington, had been cut before free agency began.
"I think he's going to give us competition at right corner and at the 'nickel' position. We're glad to have him," Jaguars defensive coordinator Mike Smith said.
Wright saw limited action last season. His best year as a pro was in 2003, when Wright intercepted three passes, had nine passes-defensed and made 44 tackles. He was selected in the fourth round of the 1999 draft by the Minnesota Vikings, for whom Wright played three seasons. He played collegiately at Northwestern (La.) State.
The highlight of Wright's career came against the Jaguars in 2003, when he intercepted Byron Leftwich twice in the Texans' come-from-behind win over the Jaguars. It was Leftwich's first start as a pro.
