2014 NFL Mock Draft – Jaguars Targeting Clowney?

Oct 12, 2013; Fayetteville, AR, USA; South Carolina Gamecock defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (7) runs through a block by Arkansas Razorback offensive tackle David Hurd (69) during the first half of a game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. South Carolina defeated Arkansas 52-7. Mandatory Credit: Beth Hall-USA TODAY Sports

With mock draft season in full swing, we’re starting to see people change mock drafts based on the most minute rumors. This week mock drafters around the web decided to follow the lead of ESPN beat writer Michael DiRocco, who believes the Jaguars are targeting South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney:

"@ESPNdirocco: I believe the Jaguars are going to take defensive end Jadeveon Clowney with the No. 3 overall selection. Quarterback and pass-rusher are the team’s top two needs, but there is some thought from those inside the building that none of the QBs are ready to start right away. Clowney can be an impact player right away."

DiRocco was also asked about which of the quarterbacks the Jaguars would prefer if they were forced to take one, and he conceded that HE preferred Teddy Bridgewater. It’s pretty clear that all of this is DiRocco’s opinion. I think if anything the Jaguars are trying to feign a lack of interest in the quarterbacks to prevent other teams from trading up.

Still, that hasn’t stopped people from giving the Jaguars Clowney in mock drafts across the web, including over at NFL Spin Zone. Here is what Joe Soriano had to say about his selection:

"3. Jacksonville JaguarsJadeveon ClowneyDE, South CarolinaI really want the Jacksonville Jaguars to take a quarterback in the first round, but there’s no point in taking a QB and setting your franchise back a few years if you don’t think there’s someone who stands out and is worth the third overall pick. It all may be a smokescreen, but I’m also wondering if the Jaguars are sold on Johnny Manziel or Derek Carr. I know it sounds like I’m bucking my own logic here, but the Jaguars have so many needs that their prudent GM David Caldwell knows it’s best to build a strong roster. I agree with that, and I think the Jaguars are going to go best-available here. Despite his lack of pass rush moves, rawness, and background concerns, Clowney is the best prospect in this draft class. The Jaguars desperately need a top pass rusher, and that’s what Clowney would provide for this team. Not only does he have elite physical tools, but he’s also a willing and able run defender, which should further help this team. I could see the Jags taking Clowney and then picking up a second-tier QB like David Fales, Aaron Murray, or Jimmy Garoppolo in the second- or third- round of the draft."

Again, I would be shocked if the Jaguars passed on a quarterback at number 3. We have a long way to go until May.

-Daniel Lago

Yell at me on Twitter @dlago89