Jacksonville Jaguars: DT Tommy Togiai would be solid mid-round pick

Although defensive end may rank higher on the Jacksonville Jaguars’ offseason to-do list, they can’t neglect their interior defensive line and should use a few selections in 2021’s draft on a defensive tackle prospect. If they aren’t interested in using an early-round pick to take someone like Christian Barmore, they should consider using a mid-round selection on Ohio State defensive tackle Tommy Togiai.

A rotational player in his freshman season, Togiai saw his playing time progressively go up over his three-year collegiate career and logged 23 total tackles (4.5 for a loss), three sacks, and one forced fumble as a junior in 2020. Although he lacks ideal size for the position, he has the power and the explosiveness to thrive as a defensive tackle at the pro level. Moreover, he makes good use of his hands to beat opposing linemen.

The biggest knocks surrounding Togiai are that he hasn’t played more than 300 snaps in a season and his less-than-ideal length. However, he showed in the 2021 Sugar Bowl that he can play at a high level against top competition, finishing the game with four total tackles (one for a loss), and one pass defensed.

Where should the Jacksonville Jaguars draft Tommy Togiai?

NFL Mock sees the Jaguars as a potential fit for Togiai in this year’s draft. Both Doug Costin and DaVon Hamilton displayed flashes of talent as rookies in 2020 but the team still needs to add depth at the position and Togiai would be a solid addition. Although Pro Football Network sees the defensive tackle getting drafted in the second round, he should still be available in the third.

The Jaguars’ defense struggled to control the line of scrimmage in 2020. If they want to change that, they need to give their front four a makeover, and using a mid-round pick on Tagiai could turn out to be a worthwhile investment.