Five 2023 NFL Draft prospect the Jaguars must keep an eye on

The Jacksonville Jaguars did a good job of replenishing their roster this offseason. However, they will need to continue to add talent next year if they want to become a legitimate playoff contender. The Jags have held the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft in consecutive years but there’s a chance they will pick outside the top 5 (maybe top 10) in 2023 if they live up to expectations.

Outside of quarterback, the Jags could fortify pretty much any position next year. With that in mind, here are five prospects they should keep an eye on in the 2022 college football season.

No. 5 draft prospect the Jaguars must keep an eye on: Cooper Beebe, OT

The Jaguars’ offensive line will look a bit different after undergoing a few changes in the offseason. They re-signed Cam Robinson and locked up Pro Bowl guard Brandon Scherff in free agency. Tyler Shatley will tentatively start at center while rookie Luke Fortner develops. Jawaan Taylor and Walker Little will compete for the starting job at right tackle in training camp.

Then, there’s Ben Bartch, who will have the chance to show he’s the long-term answer at left guard. The former St. John Johnny has steadily improved over the last two seasons but if he doesn’t show enough in 2022, the team’s brass might be inclined to target an offensive guard in next year’s draft.

Kansas State’s Cooper Beebe performed well in 2021, posting a Pro Football Focus overall grade of 85.4. Also, the Missouri native was the highest-ranked interior offensive lineman in PFF’s top 50 board ahead of the 2022 season.

Beebe has the flexibility to line up at both guard and left tackle. Furthermore, he didn’t allow a single sack on 367 pass-blocking snaps last year and if he has another solid season, he could become a top 15 prospect in 2023.