4-Round Jaguars Mock Draft: Addressing Needs and Depth
By Luke Sims
Oct 18, 2014; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Jared Goff (16) is unable to elude UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Owamagbe Odighizuwa (94) in the fourth quarter at Memorial Stadium. The Bruins defeated the Golden Bears 36-34. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
UCLA. Owamagbe Odighizuwa. 36. player. 52. The much needed disruptive defensive end for the Jaguars is added in round two.. DE
It’s no secret that the Jacksonville Jaguars need a pass rusher who can be disruptive on every down and while this Jaguars mock draft doesn’t have the team taking one of the premier talents at the position, in Owa Odighizuwa they get a player who is far more disruptive than his college production indicates. Odighizuwa had 11.5 tackles for a loss and six sacks during his final season with UCLA but has upside to build on. He’s a good mover, as emphasized by his NFL Combine performances in the 40-yard dash, shuttle runs, vertical, and broad jumps.
The Jaguars coaching staff got a good look at him during the 2015 Senior Bowl and will know best how to use him, though it looks like he would be more of a versatile defensive lineman than a dedicated LEO. What I like most about him is that he is reported to have a high motor and doesn’t give up on plays. Persistence pays off in the NFL and if he can build on his 6’3″ frame and become even more athletic then his pass rushing skills will improve at the next level. Odighizuwa is a bit of a gamble as he missed 2013 with injury, but he could pay off as a key member of the defensive line’s rotation. I’m inclined to think he’ll be a better pro than he was a college player.
Next: Finding a third round free safety