Jacksonville Jaguars: LSU LB Jabril Cox’s draft stock is rising

As important as it is for the Jacksonville Jaguars to get the first overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft right, they have to make sure they get as many difference-makers as possible with their 10 other picks. Due to the number of choices they hold, they will be able to take many paths in the selection process but they should consider including LSU Jabril Cox in whichever one they end up choosing.

Cox has partaken in practices ahead of the Reese’s Senior Bowl and has put his athleticism on display. Also, the Missouri native has shown he can stick with receivers in coverage and the ability to rush the passer.

Originally a two-star recruit, Cox played for North Dakota state from 2016 to 2019, where he logged 258 total tackles (32 for a loss), 14 sacks, 18 passes defensed, and six interceptions. He then entered the transfer portal as a grad transfer and signed with the Tigers in 2020. In his lone year at LSU, he registered 58 total tackles, one sack, five pass deflections, and three interceptions.

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ defense could use Jabril Cox’s skill set.

The Jaguars’ defense wasn’t very good in 2020 and is in need of upgrades at every position group. While their secondary and their defensive line require the most attention, they could use a third linebacker.

Joe Schobert and Myles Jack are entrenched in the starting lineup, but this Jacksonville team needs another linebacker to round out the unit. They could use their first second-round selection, the 33rd overall pick, on a prospect like cornerback Jaycee Horn or Quincy Roche and target Cox with their other second-round pick, the 44th overall selection.

Last season, the Jaguars’ decision to trade defensive end Yannick Nagkoue to the Minnesota Vikings for a second-round selection, the one that became the 44th overall in 2021, hindered their ability to generate pressure upfront. However, the team can now use that pick to fortify their defense by drafting someone like Cox.