Jerry Jacobs has found his next home early in training camp. The veteran cornerback is set to sign with the Rams, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports. 
Jacobs took a number of visits this offseason, but that did not include any known ones with Los Angeles. Of course, the Rams’ secondary has recently been dealt a blow with Derion Kendrick suffering an ACL tear. Jacobs will now step in and attempt to carve out a defensive role in Kendrick’s absence.
After three seasons with the Lions, Jacobs did not receive an RFA tender. That left him free to explore other opportunities, and he took visits with the Falcons and Vikings in May. Neither of those produced a deal, nor did his meeting with the Panthers earlier this week. With Kendrick going down, though, a new opening emerged and Jacobs will have the chance to compete for a starting spot or at least part-time defensive duties alongside the likes of Darious Williams, Tre’Davious White and Cobie Durant.
The 26-year-old has made 29 starts, including 12 last season. Jacobs posted a career high in interceptions (three) and tackles (55) in 2023, although his coverage statistics were worse than in years past. Detroit made additions at the cornerback spot via free agency, trade and the draft this offseason, leaving Jacobs in need of a new home. The Arkansas alum could prove to be a cost-effective addition if he manages to remain healthy and earn playing time in Los Angeles, though.
The Rams entered Friday with roughly $8.3MM in cap space, allowing for an addition such as this one. The Jacobs deal will no doubt be a one-year investment, one which will allow him to boost his free agent stock ahead of next offseason. If he fits in with Los Angeles, his arrival could prove to be a notable summer pickup.