Just a couple weeks after free agency has slowed down, it's becoming clear what the Jacksonville Jaguars plan to do in the 2026 NFL Draft. Sure, general manager James Gladstone had already stated that the team was going to limit its free-agency acquisitions and would instead build through the draft. That said, he didn't go into specifics, but the Jags' strategy appears to be obvious based on their latest signings.
Before the tampering period, the Jags re-signed linebacker Dennis Gardeck and cornerback Montaric Brown. They also brought back tight end Quintin Morris. Since then, they've locked up running back Chris Rodriguez and wide receiver Jake Bobo.
Having kept a couple of pivotal pieces on offense and adding depth on offense, the Jaguars can now turn their attention to addressing their most glaring needs. They should have no trouble taking care of it with the 56th overall pick.
What is the Jaguars' biggest need after free agency?
After free agency, the Jaguars' biggest needs are defensive tackle and the pass rush. They could also use a boundary cornerback even after bringing back Montaric Brown, but it's not as much of a priority with Travis Hunter slated to play defense full-time in 2026. The front office could easily wait until Round 3 or 4 to add depth at the position.
Similarly, safety and linebacker could use an infusion of talent after the departures of Andrew Wingard and Devin Lloyd. Then again, the Jags already have plenty of talent at both positions, so neither is a pressing need. Knowing that, it's fair to assume that Gladstone will focus on reinforcing the defensive front at No. 56.
In particular, the Jaguars could use upgrades at defensive tackle. They were reportedly interested in trading for Jalen Carter, but it no longer looks like a realistic possibility. Nevertheless, it's easy to see why they would want to acquire the two-time Pro Bowl nod.
Outside of Arik Armstead, they don't truly have a game-altering talent at the position. DaVon Hamilton is a superb run-stuffer but not much of a pass-rusher. Maason Smith is also in the mix, but he's coming off a disappointing 2025 season. Moreover, Armstead is slated to become a free agent in 2027, so the team's brass may want to replenish the interior trenches.
And in case you were wondering, the Jaguars don't have a first-round pick in 2026 because they gave it up as part of a package to trade up for Hunter last year.
Who could the Jaguars draft with the 56th pick?
If the Jaguars want to draft a defensive tackle or a pass rusher in Round 2, they'll have no shortage of options. While this class isn't particularly stacked at defensive tackle, A handful of intriguing options will still be available at No. 56. Lee Hunter has been mocked to Jacksonville a few times, but James Gladstone would surely be hyped up if Christen Miller is still on the board. Based on how the first round unfolds, though, Peter Woods and Kayden McDonald could also be available.
But if Jacksonville wants to go pass rusher in Round 2, Akheem Mesidor, Cashius Howell, T. Parker, and R Mason Thomas would be appealing options. Then again, this is going to be a deep class, so the Jags could wait until Rounds 3 or 4 and still come out with a game-changer.
Either way, it would be shocking to see the Jaguars not address the defensive line after their moves in free agency.