3 interior D-linemen Jaguars can draft in the middle rounds in 2022

The Jacksonville Jaguars need to replenish their defensive line’s interior. Luckily for them, prospects abound in this year’s NFL draft.

Doug Pederson is the Jaguars’ new head coach after the abomination that was Urban Meyer’s disastrous lone season in the same position. Likewise, the organization has moved on from defensive coordinator Joe Cullen. How the Jaguars approach defensive players this April at the draft will hinge on Pederson and his staff’s type of defensive philosophy.

Nevertheless, several players from the middle rounds could contribute for a variety of reasons, ranging from versatility to sheer athleticism. In particular, there are three prospects that the Jaguars’ brass should consider in April on Days 2 and 3 of the draft.

No. 1 Jaguars D-Line target in 2022 – Thomas Booker, Stanford.

The six-foot-ten, 310-pound behemoth excelled at Stanford, playing all over the defensive line. Booker’s versatility is what will get everyone’s attention, as he’s a force that can disrupt both the offensive backfield and wreak havoc. He’s not your traditional defensive end, but rather a hybrid, or better described as a five-technique defensive end. Think Richard Seymour.

His numbers don’t scream pass rush (totaling 9.5 sacks over four seasons), but it’s his tangibles that stand out. His frame is well-rounded, and he possesses an imposingly powerful lower body. That is why he’s so effective at the five technique. His strength and explosiveness help him plow through blockers and into the backfield. No doubt the Jaguars can make use of Booker, especially if he’s available in the third or fourth round.