The Jacksonville Jaguars need to fortify their defensive front in the 2026 NFL Draft, but they could also add reinforcements to several position groups. The offensive line comes to mind. While the Jags have a well-rounded group, they shouldn't hesitate to add another hog molly if the opportunity arises. Heck, the team's brass shouldn't hesitate to take one in Round 2. Chase Bisontis would make sense if he's available, but Dane Brugler of The Athletic just came up with another intriguing option.
In his latest seven-round mock draft, Brugler has Jacksonville taking Gennings Dunker at No. 56. Although Brugler doesn't offer a reason for the pick, it would definitely give the interior offensive trenches a boost.
The logic behind the Jaguars taking Gennings Dunker in Dane Brugler's mock draft
Gennings Dunker is one of the top offensive line prospects in this year's draft. He mostly played offensive tackle at Iowa State but may be better suited to play guard in the NFL because he lacks top lateral quickness.
Either way, the Jaguars covet position flexibility on their offensive linemen, so the team brass could give Dunker a look on the edge. It's also worth noting that he doesn't pop up on many top 50 boards but is projected to go in the second or third round.
The interior defensive line and the pass rush are Jacksonville's biggest roster voids, but if they opt for the "best player available route", Dunker would be an option at No. 56. General manager James Gladstone could then address the defensive trenches with their three picks in Round 3.
How would Gennings Dunker fit with the Jaguars?
Last year, the Jaguars had their offensive linemen get reps at different positions during the offseason program. But for the sake of the argument, let's say Gennings Dunker makes the switch to guard. He could compete for the backup job behind Patrick Mekari as a rookie and eventually get a bigger role.
Mekari was the crown jewel of Jacksonville's 2025 free-agent class. After signing a three-year deal worth $37.5 million, he was expected to solidify the right guard spot but instead struggled. While injuries certainly played a role in his underwhelming performance, the former Cal Golden Bear will be under pressure to bounce back. But if he falters, having Dunker in the mix would come in handy.
On the other hand, the Jags already have sophomore Wyatt Millum, and he could compete for either a backup job or replace left guard Ezra Cleveland down the stretch. Cooper Hodges also remains on the roster. Although he's a long shot to make the 53-man roster, the team's brass is high on him.
Nevertheless, investing a draft on Dunker makes sense, as he could give Jackson insurance in the trenches right off the bat. Moreover, Milum, Mekari, and the rest of the group would benefit from the competition he would bring.
If the Jaguars aren't thrilled about their options at defensive tackle or the pass rush at No. 56, Gennings Dunker should most definitely be an option.
Add us as a preferred source on Google