2015 Jaguars Mock Draft Using Mike Mayock’s Top 100 Prospects

Feb 21, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Virginia defensive lineman Eli Harold talks to the media at the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

A possible late first round pick, Harold is a solid defensive end or a 304 outside linebacker for NFL teams. He’s able to turn the corner quickly to get after the quarterback and he has an explosive start to the play, coming off the line and forcing opposing tackles to account for him as he seeks out the passer. He put up 14.5 tackles for a loss last season at Virginia, continuing a stellar trend that began in 2013 with 15. He added 15.5 sacks during his last seasons as well.

Harold is a pass rusher, which fills a need for the Jaguars. He isn’t one of the premier talents at his position, but if the Jaguars did wait until round two to address the role, they could do much worse than him. Mayock doesn’t have another defensive end listed in his top 100 until number 49 with Preston Smith. Smith is less of an edge rusher than Harold and would not fit the LEO position that head coach Gus Bradley desperately wants filled.

I like Harold falling into the Jags’ lap at 36 overall. He’s a strong player with some room for growth. He’s demonstrated success in the college ranks and his ability to get around the corner is impressive and would give the Jags a surefire threat on every down. He’s familiar with playing with his hand in the dirt or standing up, bringing versatility to the Jaguars’ rotation. They could do a lot worse than Harold and bringing him in after securing a top flight receiver like Kevin White in the first round would be a nice feather in GM Dave Caldwell’s cap.

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