Ohio State defensive back Malcolm Jenkins posted slower-than-expected times in Tuesday's defensive back workouts at the scouting combine, and is likely not to have climbed into the top 10 picks of this year's NFL draft.
Jenkins ran in the 4.5's, which may cause some teams to begin viewing Jenkins as more of a safety than as a cornerback. He is considered to be the top defensive back prospect in this draft but was far down the list of 40 times among defensive backs. Tuesday's workouts will close the combine.
The Jaguars have the eighth overall pick and have a distinct need at either cornerback or safety. The Jaguars are also considered to have need at offensive tackle, running back and wide receiver. According to the combine workouts, it would seem a wide receiver is more likely to fit at the Jaguars' pick than a tackle, running back or defensive back.
"They have not told me this is specifically what we need. They have not said we're targeting this position. Obviously, safety is a need and we'll go from there," newly-hired Defensive Coordinator Mel Tucker said.
Defensive back play is Tucker's specialty. As coordinator of the Browns' 3-4 defense last year, Tucker's unit was third in the league in interceptions.
"It's all about the players. The scheme is important, but more so it's the players, whether it's the 3-4 or the 4-3," Tucker said.
Speculation, of course, is that the Jaguars might switch from a 4-3 to 3-4 defense. Tucker begged off the question, but hinted that dramatic change isn't likely.
"We're going to play the way (head coach Jack Del Rio) wants to play; sound run fits, being aggressive and disruptive, playing fast and playing physical. That's always been the thing you notice about the Jaguars," Tucker said. "I have the 3-4 in my background, but the majority of my coaching has been in a 4-3 when I was coaching with Nick Saban.
"The true 3-4 is two-gapping. I wouldn't anticipate us doing a lot of that," Tucker added.
