2015 NFL Mock Draft: Jaguars Get a Center in Round 2?

2015 NFL Mock Draft season is generally just bunch of predictions with nobody ever getting all of the picks right. NFL talent evaluators notoriously go after prospects that draft pundits and experts consider poor decisions. Each year one or two of those selections surprise us.

So it’s not uncommon to see an occasional surprise pick thrown into a mock draft. 2015 NFL Mock Drafts have had plenty of them already.

It was surprising, however, to see that Lance Zierlein and Chad Reuter throw the Jacksonville Jaguars a center at pick 36 in their 2015 NFL Mock Draft published today. Most consider a running back or a defensive lineman at that draft spot. While the Jaguars do need offensive line help, the logic here is shaky at best, with them saying:

"36. Jacksonville Jaguars: Cameron Erving, C, Florida StateIf the team likes second-year Luke Bowanko or veteran free-agent signee Stefen Wisniewski in the middle, Erving can shift to right tackle to aid LT Luke Joeckel protect QB Blake Bortles."

The Jaguars went out of their way in the 2015 offseason to address right tackle, shoring up the position with free agent Jermey Parnell. Luke Bowanko showed he had plenty to offer last season and is worthy of starting in 2015. Wisniewski is insurance. Where the Jaguars need help is at left tackle depth, not center.

Now, Erving did pay left tackle at Florida State and he is transitioning from playing defensive line. He seems to have solid footwork. But the Jaguars aren’t looking for a project at those backup positions. They are looking for someone who could be reliable when called upon.

Spending a second round pick on a guy who may not be able to transition well to the offensive line at the NFL level at any one position (let alone becoming a renaissance man) seems like a gamble GM Dave Caldwell isn’t likely to make.

There are other positions that are in need of immediate help and the 36th overall pick is a good place to ensure you get a starter at one of those positions. It isn’t a place to take a chance on a converted defensive lineman when you need to show that your team can progress in year three of your rebuild.

Next: Are Allen Robinson and Marwise Lee Second Fiddle Receivers?

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