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2016 NFL Draft: David Caldwell came to play

By Luke Sims

Feb 25, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars general manager David Caldwell speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 25, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars general manager David Caldwell speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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The 2016 NFL Draft has one clear winner through the first few picks of the second round: Jacksonville Jaguars general manager David Caldwell.

Make no mistake, there was plenty of talent still on the board when the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft came around. Many teams were walking away with first round talent in the second round.

But nobody has played it quite as well as Jacksonville Jaguars general manager David Caldwell.

Caldwell has displayed nerves of steel and a boldness that many teams envy.

Standing at fifth overall to select Jalen Ramsey, the Jaguars’ GM refused to budge and was rewarded with arguably the best player in the entire 2016 NFL Draft. Ramsey is becoming a Jaguar and will immediately make a difference for a defense that desperately needs to improve.

In round two, Caldwell shocked the world by trading up two picks in order to select another top-five player, UCLA linebacker Myles Jack. Jack, assuming his knee is ready to go, can come in and make a difference immediately as well. No matter what, he’s a perfect fit for the Jags defense and will be able to add versatility to the linebacking corps.

Two very different strategies employed by Caldwell in the draft thus far. Despite rumors that he wouldn’t trade up, Caldwell displayed a perfect understanding of what was going on in the draft and a willingness to work it the way he wanted. Trading up or staying at his position, Caldwell was feeling the draft better than almost anybody else and was making excellent selections.

In a draft when Caldwell needed to hit a home run, he’s hit two. There’s no question he has made this team considerably better for 2016 and beyond. Caldwell has shown that he understands the evaluation and way to play the game better than many gave him credit for after a mediocre first draft in 2013. He has grown and matured to this point and will continue to impress.

Next: 5 third round options for the Jaguars

There are still many more rounds left to go and the Jaguars have plenty of picks to use! Get excited!

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