The Cincinnati Bengals sent shockwaves across the NFL when they traded for Dexter Lawrence in exchange for the 10th overall selection. While it was pricy (they also need to give him a new deal, they no longer have to worry about adding a defensive tackle in the NFL Draft. When you take into account that this wasn't a great year to look for one, Cincy might've made the right call. Inadvertently, though, it might've handed the Jacksonville Jaguars an edge.
It's possible that the Bengals assessed their options at defensive tackles with the 10th pick and weren't enthused about any of them. And after acquiring Lawrence, they no longer have a need at the position, which means that one fewer team will be drafting a defensive tackle. And if the Jags still want to take one in Round 2, their preferred target may be available when they're on the clock.
The Jaguars may see DTs slide to No. 56 after the Dexter Larwence trade
Had the Bengals stayed up, they would have probably gone defensive tackle in Rounds 1 or 2, depending on how much they prioritized the position. That's no longer the case after they traded for Dexter Lawrence.
The top defensive tackles in 2026 are (in no particular order) Kayden McDonald, Christen Miller, Peter Woods, Caleb Banks, and Lee Hunter. Cincy might've taken one of the at No. 10 or No. 44. In Jordan Reid's latest mock draft, only McDonald, Miller, and Woods are off the board by the time Jacksonville gets to pick.
The Jags ultimately roll with Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr., who would be a potential heir-apparent for Devin Lloyd, so it wouldn't necessarily be a bad pick. Still, Hunter and Banks remained available.
Of course, this is just one way the draft could play out, but it goes on to show that Jacksonville could have options at defensive tackle with the 56th overall pick.
The Jaguars could go defensive tackle even after trading for Ruke Orhorhoro
Less than a week before the draft, the Jaguars sent Maason Smith to the Atlanta Falcons in return for Ruke Orhorhoro. On paper, the Jags got an upgrade at defensive tackle, as Orhorhoro had one of the highest pass-rush win rates at the position at the midpoint of the 2025 season. And if the former Clemson Tiger can improve against the run, the Jacksonville interior defensive line will get a massive boost.
With Orhorhoro also in the mix, the team's brass no longer has to prioritize the interior trenches early in the draft. Now, general manager James Gladstone can turn his attention to the offensive line, cornerback, tight even or any other position he sees fit. Having said that, double-dipping at defensive tackle shouldn't be outright ruled out.
If two of the top defensive tackles make it to No. 56, the Jags shouldn't hesitate to take the one they like the most. Conversely, they no longer have to force the fit, but it's encouraging to know that they will have options.
The Jaguars ultimately passed on Dexter Lawrence but could end up benefiting from the trade if they go defensive tackle early in the draft.
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