Rayshawn Jenkins says ‘coaching’ has made all the difference

Jacksonville Jaguars safety Rayshawn Jenkins had a career day Sunday, recording 18 tackles and an interception before icing the game against the Dallas Cowboys with his second pick of the day, returning it 52 yards for a walk-off touchdown.

Last season, Jenkins struggled to make much of an impact for the Jaguars, finishing the 2021 season without an interception or a forced fumble and only three passes defended. His play has stepped up significantly in 2022 with three picks, two forced fumbles, and double-digit passes defended.

What’s the difference? That’s easy, he says.

“Coaching. Coaching. I’m going to be very upfront and honest, it’s been coaching,” Jenkins told reporters, via Demetrius Harvey of The Florida Times-Union. “We’re a way smarter team now. We’ve got information coming to us now. Our coaches do a really good job of making sure we know what’s coming and making sure we’re prepared.”

Here’s the video of #Jaguars safety Rayshawn Jenkins on what’s changed for them this year: pic.twitter.com/EgxISqbCqi

— Demetrius Harvey (@Demetrius82) December 18, 2022

Jenkins joined the Jaguars as a free agent during the 2021 offseason on a four-year, $35 million deal. His first season with the team was a disaster, though, with Urban Meyer getting fired as head coach after 13 games. This season, there’s no doubt Jenkins has looked more like the player the Jaguars hoped to get when they signed him.

Still, Jacksonville could save $6.25 million in 2023 cap space and $8.75 million by cutting Jenkins in the offseason. Those potential savings leave Jenkins’ future with the team up in the air.

More performances like the one he had Sunday against the Cowboys would make it hard for the Jaguars to part with Jenkins any time soon.