5 low-key second-round options for the Jaguars in the 2022 NFL Draft

2. Jaguars’ low-key option in the 2nd round – Marquis Hayes, IOL.

One area that doesn’t get as much attention as wide receiver but the Jaguars can’t neglect in the draft is their interior offensive line. While Brandon Scherff will start at right guard, it’s unknown who will line up at left guard. Ben Bartch will get the first look but if the team’s brass can upgrade the position, they shouldn’t hesitate to do it.

Interior offensive linemen Zion Johnson and Kenyon Green could be realistic options at No. 33 but if they aren’t available and the Jags still want to land a guard, Marquis Hayes would be an alternative. The former Oklahoma Sooner possesses a 6-foot-5, 324-pound frame and the power to go with it.

Hayes made 12 starts at left guard last season and was a second-team All-Big 12 selection. He had no trouble overpowering defensive linemen at the collegiate level and shouldn’t have trouble dominating defenders in the pros. He needs to improve his footwork and set his base before making contact. On the other hand, he’s a good run blocker that knows how to take angles. He’s the physical kind of player you want opening lanes in the running game.

Brandon Thorn of the Bleacher Report scouting department describes Hayes as a “tone-setting presence on the line” and adds that he has the length, power, and speed to make up for his below-average foot quickness. He could come in and challenge Bartch for the starting job at left guard right off the bat.