The Jacksonville Jaguars appear to be on the cusp of a full-blown rebuild with names such as Jalen Ramsey, AJ Bouye and Calais Campbell all departing from the roster over the past year. The Jags have added a few difference-makers this offseason as well though and will add to their haul with veteran running back Chris Thompson.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Thompson has agreed to a one-year deal with Jacksonville. The Jaguars officially announced the signing on their Twitter account Friday.
Welcome to #DUUUVAL, @christhompson_4 pic.twitter.com/hhU2p0WhrL
— #DUUUVAL (@Jaguars) May 1, 2020
RB Chris Thompson is signing a one-year deal with the Jaguars, per source. Good pass-catching option out of the backfield for Gardner Minshew.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) May 1, 2020
With a number of veterans out of the picture, Chris Thompson will join a youthful but intriguing offense. Of course, part of Thompson’s decision to sign with the Jags likely stemmed from Jay Gruden being hired as their offensive coordinator. Thompson played under Gruden for six seasons when he was the head coach for the Washington Redskins.
With Gruden now calling the plays in Jacksonville, Thompson could serve as an ideal backfield complement to bruising back Leonard Fournette. Though he may not be a traditional three-down runner, Thompson will add pass-catching and versatility toe Jacksonville’s running backs group.