Jaguars fortify their offense in this 3-round Christmas mock draft
Jaguars mock draft, third round, 72nd overall pick – Sean Rhyan, OL.
The Jaguars secured a 2022 third-round selection (and tight end Dan Arnold) when they traded cornerback C.J. Henderson to the Carolina Panthers after Week 3 of the 2021 season. They could use the pick to keep fortifying the offensive line. Even Neal would solidify the left tackle spot and Walker Little compete with Jawaan Taylor to start at right tackle.
Having said that, backup offensive tackle Will Richardson is set to become a free agent and the Jaguars need to find his replacement. Sean Rhyan at 72 would be a great addition. The UCLA product has top power and athleticism, according to Ian Cummings of Pro Football Network. On the other hand, he might lack the ideal length to play tackle at the NFL level. In fact, Pro Football Focus has him listed as an interior offensive lineman and sits at 80 in their top 100 draft board.
Because Rhyan could be too good to pass on, the Jaguars could try him out at tackle or move him to guard and have him compete with Ben Bartch or Andrew Norwell (if he re-signs) for a starting job. You could make the case the Jags may have other pressing needs but at some point in the draft, they need to take the best player available at the same time they add depth to their roster.
As important as acquiring playmakers will be, the Jags also need to fortify the roster. Hitting on most of their draft picks in 2022 could help them turn the corner quickly and even put them in a position to compete for a playoff spot as soon as next year.