FSU Alums: Tim Jernigan looking for redemption in 2019
By Kelvin Hunt
Former FSU defensive tackle Tim Jernigan has dealt with injuries over the last year that have cost him millions. He’s looking for redemption in 2019.
FSU national champion defensive tackle Tim Jernigan was drafted in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens.
He had three very productive years with Baltimore before signing with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2017.
That season saw him play well enough to sign a four-year contract extension worth 48 million dollars. However, a back injury that required surgery only allowed him to play in three regular season games and two playoff games in 2018.
The Eagles restructured his contract, costing him 11 million dollars in 2019, but resigned him to a one-year deal worth 1.25 million after declining the option for 2019.
Jernigan finally appears healthy and has drawn praise from Eagles Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz:
Jim Schwartz: DT Tim Jernigan is as good or even better than he’s been since joining the #Eagles. Better in the scheme.
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) July 30, 2019
Jernigan spoke with media recently about his expectations for the upcoming season:
"“For the first time in a while, I’ve been healthy” Jernigan said, via NJ Advance Media. “The biggest thing is just taking advantage of my opportunities. We play in a system where we’re loaded up front. We brought in Malik, he’s a great player. It’s gonna be a matter of the chances I get, taking advantage of them. I’m not trying to step on (anybody’s) toes. I just want to be ready when my number’s called.”"
Thoughts
There’s no question the Philadelphia Eagles got a bargain if Tim Jernigan can remain healthy. He was one of the better defensive tackles in the league in 2016 and 2017.
He’s still relatively young as he won’t turn 27 years old until September. However, back injuries can be tricky especially when playing a position like defensive tackle.
The good news is it appears Jernigan will not have to play full-time snap so that should keep him fresh throughout the season.
The only downside is those opportunities will be limited as he said, so capitalizing on them will likely determine what his future looks like moving forward.
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A solid season should give him an opportunity to land a multi-year deal and try to recoup some of the millions he lost in 2018 due to the back injury.