Jaguars 2021 NFL Draft: Winners and losers from Day 1

Jacksonville Jaguars’ losers after Day 1 of 2021’s draft.

1) James Robinson

Shouldn’t James Robinson benefit from Travis Etienne’s presence? Yes, but at a personal level, the sophomore’s production will take a dive, as he will now have to share the load with the Clemson standout. Last season, the Illinois State standout established himself as one of the best running backs in the NFL, appearing in 14 games and racking up 240 yards for 1,070 yards and seven touchdowns.

Moreover, Robinson totaled the most scrimmage yards by an undrafted rookie in NFL history last season even though he missed two games. He was one of the lone bright spots in the Jaguars’ offense and he will now have to share the spotlight with Etienne.

2) The Jaguars’ defense

While the offensive counterpart got a franchise quarterback and one of the best running backs in the draft, the defense got… nothing. The Jaguars were always going to use the top pick of the draft on Lawrence, but what about the 25th? Couldn’t they have used it on defense?

After all, running back wasn’t a pressing need. The Jags had Robinson and Carlos Hyde, whom they signed in free agency. You could even argue Etienne was an unnecessary luxury. As bad as Jacksonville’s offense was last season, the defense was also one of the worst in the league.

Prospects such as linebacker Micah Parsons and Kwity Paye were already off the board by the Jags were on the clock at 25. Nevertheless, they could’ve drafted someone like cornerback Greg Newsome II, whom the Cleveland Browns took one selection later, or defensive end Gregory Rousseau, the Buffalo Bill’s pick at 30. It’s likely the Jaguars will focus on their defense on Day 2. In the meantime, the unit is still in need of upgrades.