The Jacksonville Jaguars didn't precisely generate rave reviews for their unorthodox approach to the draft. Nevertheless, general manager James Gladstone is confident that things will turn out just fine. And that's the thing, you can question how he attacked the whole process, but he definitely had a clear strategy.
Apart from becoming a more physical running team, the Jags wanted to raise the roster's ceiling. They should be able to get it done with the 10 players they selected. Couple that with the fact that Jacksonville signed 17undrafted free agents (and counting) in the aftermath, and the team is in good shape.
Of course, with all the new arrivals, the roster could experience a significant turnover next season. With this in mind, here are six players who could be on thin ice after the draft.
Chuma Edoga, Jaguars offensive guard
The Jaguars signed Chuma Edoga to a two-year deal worth $7 million in 2025 because they wanted him to provide depth up front. Although he showed promise in the offseason program, he struggled once he saw the field. While Jacksonville could still keep him around, third-round selection Emmanuel Pregnon offers significantly more upside at guard.
When you take into account that the Jags can free up $2.9 million in space if they release him, it may be a matter of time before Edoga gets the boot.
Eric Murray, Jaguars safety
All things considered, Eric Murray lived up to expectations in his first campaign in Duval. He signed a three-year deal worth $18.5 million to provide stability at safety, and did just precisely that. However, he's entering his 11th NFL season and isn't that much of a game-changer, having registered just four career interceptions.
The Jags certainly thought they could use upgrades at safety when they drafted Jalen Huskey in the third round of this year's draft. Couple that with the presence of Antonio Johnson and sophomore Caleb Ransaw, and Murray could be a victim of the number's game.
Hunter Long, Jaguars tight end
The Jaguars made it clear that they wanted to bolster their tight end room when they drafted Nate Boerkircher in Round 2 and Tanner Toziol two rounds later. Granted, Brenton Strange remains at the top of the depth chart, but the depth behind him was in need of a boost.
Both Hunter Long and Quintin Morris are fine blockers but neither brings much to the table as pass catchers. Meanwhile, Toziol was highly productive at the collegiate career while Boerkircher excels at blocking. With the two of them in the mix, it's hard to see Jacksonville carrying five tight ends next season.
Given that Morris just signed a one-year deal, and releasing Long would free up cap space, the latter is the most likely candidate to get his walking papers.
Arik Armstead, Jaguars defensive tackle
After a disappointing 2024, Arik Armstead returned to his more familiar spot at defensive tackle last year. He ended up racking up five sacks, but none of them in the last seven games of the season. When you factor in that he's entering the last year of the $43.5 million deal he signed in 2024, the writing could be on the wall for the former Oregon Duck.
Before the draft, the Jags traded for Ruke Orhorhoro. They then took Albert Regis in Round 3. Whether it's this year or next, they'll make Armstead expendable.
Jalen McLeod, Jaguars linebacker
The Jaguars couldn't see what Jalen McLeod brought to the table after suffering an ankle injury in 2025 that sidelined him for his entire rookie campaign. Had he stayed healthy, it would have been interesting to see how the coaching staff would deploy him, as he could play stand-up linebacker or line up with his hand on the ground.
Maybe McLeod can still make an impact, but the fact that the Jags drafted Wesley Williams and Zach Durfee shows that they aren't taking any chances in case he doesn't.
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