2018 NFL Draft: McShay sends Jaguars a wide receiver in latest mock

The Jacksonville Jaguars may be in the market for a wide receiver if Allen Robinson leaves, and Todd McShay is trying to help them out in his latest mock.

In a curious move, the Jacksonville Jaguars opted not to use the franchise tag on wide receiver Allen Robinson this week. This means the former Pro Bowl receiver can wait until March 14th and test the free agent waters before decided whether or not he wants to be a Jaguars anymore.

It’s an odd move because the Jaguars really don’t have a player in waiting to replace Robinson’s production or his abilities. While Keelan Cole and Dede Westbrook showed promise as rookies last year, neither players has the ability to make the type of contested catches that Robinson routinely made in 2015.

If the Jaguars let Robinson go, they’ll likely look for a replacement in free agency or the draft.

In his most recent mock draft, ESPN Draft expert Todd McShay is reacting quickly to the Jaguars’ odd decision to not franchise wide receiver Allen Robinson by sending the franchise a pass catcher:

"29. Jacksonville JaguarsD.J. Moore, WR, Maryland*Jacksonville has a real possibility of losing Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson in free agency. If that happens, WR is a huge need. Moore’s tape is really good when he’s targeted, and his combine showing, including a 4.42 40, only helped his cause. A tough WR with good run-after-the-catch skills."

As Billy Long noted in his mock draft round up, wide receiver and tight end have been increasingly popular selections for the Jaguars in the first round. This is the first time we’ve seen the Maryland product connected to the Jaguars.

Moore had a good combine, but he does not appear to have the same skills et that Allen Robinson does. His profile at NFL.com says the following:

"Relatively ineffective working downfield. Disappointing win percentage on 50-50 balls. Hasn’t developed feel for body positioning and capturing catch space yet."

That area is a strength for Robinson, and something the Jaguars don’t have from any other players on their roster. That should’t preclude them from taking Moore if overall he’s a good prospect, but it doesn’t exactly fill the gaping hole that would be left by the departure of Robinson.

What do you think?