The Jacksonville Jaguars sent shockwaves across the NFL when they moved up three spots to select Travis Hunter with the second overall selection. The 2024 Heisman trophy gives them a game-changer that will have an impact on both sides of the ball and raise the roster ceiling. Having said that, the job isn't finished.
To move up for Hunter, the Jags had to give up their second-round selection this year and their first rounder in 2026. That means that the Jags won't be on the clock next until Round 3. The good news is that there will still be plenty of intriguing prospects at that point in the draft. This begs the question, what direction should Jacksonville take? The answer is simple: Beef up the trenches. Offense or defense, either side could use reinforcements.
Marcus Mbow or Scott McLaughlin would give the Jaguars O-line a boost
The Jaguars already signed Patrick Mekari and Robert Hainsay to start at right guard and center, respectively. However, they need depth on the interior offensive line. Scott McLaughlin would be an excellent choice at pick 70.
McLaughlin mostly played center at Ohio State, but could hone his skills behind Hainsay and serve as the primary backup inside. His arm length is less than ideal, and he'll need to work on his pad level. That said, the former Buckeye has the tools to eventually compete for a starting spot. But if the front office wants an offensive guard, Marcus Mbow will be their guy.
Mbow can play offensive tackle or guard. That kind of versatility would be welcomed in Jacksonville. He'll probably need to bulk up to thrive in the NFL but would give the Jags much-needed depth at offensive tackle. Cole Van Lanen is entering a contract year and could leave in 2026. Similarly, 2024 fourth-round pick Javon Foster has been a disappointment. That makes Mbow an appealing option in Round 3.
TJ Sanders and Joshua Farmer would round out the Jaguars DT rotation
Of course, the Jags have an extra selection in Round 3 after agreeing to a trade with the Minnesota Vikings last year to move down six spots. They can use it to fortify their front four. As a matter of fact, general manager James Gladstone said that they would turn their attention to the defensive line in the draft after not making a single addition. This is a deep defensive tackle class, so they can easily come out of Round 3 with a quality player.
Jacksonville would love to see Alfred Collins slide to Round 2, but he'll likely be gone. The Jags could then set their sights on T.J. Sanders or Joshua Farmer. The former has the twitch and burst at the line of scrimmage to earn a role as a rotational piece early on and see an uptick in playing time once he progresses. The latter also packs quickness and power to wreak havoc at the line of scrimmage.
Either Sanders or Farmer would round out the team's defensive tackle rotation. Maason Smith finished his rookie season strong, and Arik Armstead is once again lining up inside after mostly playing on the edge last year. That said, the Jags need a No. 3, with DaVon Hamilton struggling last year.
On the other hand, the team's brass could also get a pass rusher in Round 3. Ashton Gillotte would make sense. Even if he doesn't have top-end athleticism, he could be a solid rotational player behind Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen.
The Jaguars would like to still have their second-rounder, but the truth is that they'll have plenty of options in Round 3 to continue to rise the roof.