Throughout mock season, the Jacksonville Jaguars have been a trendy destination for Lee Hunter in Round 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft. This is understandable when you consider that defensive tackle is arguably their biggest need, and the former Texas Tech Red Raiders would take care of it. That said, there's a chance he could be gone by the time they're on the clock at No. 56.
Of course, you can bet that general manager James Gladstone will be prepared for different scenarios, and if Hunter is off the board but the Jags still want to add a defensive tackle in the second round, they could turn to another intriguing prospect.
The Jaguars could pivot to Peter Woods if Lee Hunter isn't available in Round 2
Matt Miller of ESPN did a two-round mock draft and had the Cincinnati Bengals picking Peter Woods at No. 41, noting that the Clemson product has the versatility to line up at different spots, and his pass-rush potential is too good to pass up. Similarly, Dane Brugler of The Athletic put him at No. 33 in his top-100 big board.
In both cases, Woods would be gone by the time the Jags get to pick, but it's important to point out that mock drafts are simulations that predict how things could unfold, rather than a blueprint that's set in stone.
At Clemson, Woods made an immediate impact and quickly became a staple of the Tigers defense. In three seasons, he tallied a combined 54 total pressures and six sacks. His
Of course, the Jags need to be aware of other teams' draft strategy. Otherwise, they would have trouble landing any of the players they want. Either way, Woods offers a perfect alternative to Hunter in Round 2. If Jacksonville wants to wait until the third round, though, Darrell Jackson Jr. and Domonique Orange should still be available at that point in the process.
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Why the Jaguars could use Peter Woods at defensive tackle
Aside from defensive tackle, the Jaguars also need to make upgrades at corner and the pass rush. Free agency should give us a better idea of how they plan to address their needs, but they most definitely need to fortify the defensive tackle position.
Arik Armstead got off to a strong start to 2025 but cooled down once he suffered a hand injury. DaVon Hamilton, on the other hand, is a stud against the run but doesn't offer much as a pass rusher. Maason Smith is also in the mix but is coming off a disappointing season, so there's a chance that he could get the boot.
Compounding the issue is that Armstead could be a cap casualty. When you add it all up, Jacksonville needs to replenish the defensive tackle position. In fact, nobody should bat an eye if the front office double-dips in the draft.
If the loss to the Buffalo Bills taught the Jaguars something is that they need to do a better job bringing the heat. Their outside rotation could most definitely use a boost, but they truly need help in the interior trenches. That should be their focus in the offseason. Lee Hunter or Peter Woods could help them check off that box.