Jaguars bolster pass rush early in this 3-round 2022 NFL mock draft

Jaguars first-round pick in 2022 draft – Kayvon Thibodeaux, edge

You could make the case wide receiver is the Jaguars’ biggest need heading into the offseason. Left tackle might be a close second since Cam Robinson is set to become a free agent in 2022. The Jags could draft Garrett Wilson of Ohio State to bolster their wide receiver corps or Even Neal to bolster their offensive line.

On the other hand, they can’t pass on the chance to draft Kayvon Thibodeaux if he’s available at third, which looks like a strong possibility. Aidan Hutchinson has seen his draft stock soar in recent weeks and nobody would bat the eye if the Detroit Lions take him first overall. Let’s say the Houston Texans go quarterback at number two, the Jags would be in prime position to take Thibodeaux with the third overall pick.

Simply, pass rushers don’t grow on trees and Thibodeaux is one of the top two of the 2022 batch.  Imagine how dominant their defensive front would be with the Oregon standout playing opposite Josh Allen. Against Utah in the 2021 College Conference Game, Thibodeaux logged seven total tackles. He’s currently the second-highest ranked player in Pro Football Focus’ Big Board and had the fourth-highest pass-rush grade in college football in 2021.

Thibodeaux has the burst and the power to rush the quarterback. Even though he registered six sacks this season, he often caused disruption at the line of scrimmage. The California native could become the playmaker the Jaguars’ brass expected K’Lavon Chaisson to be but hasn’t become.