James Gladstone's free agency methodical play shakes up Jaguars 4-round mock draft

• James Gladstone takes care of the larger scale roster in this mock draft.
Nov 8, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) gets tackled by Navy Midshipmen linebacker Coleman Cauley (58) during the first half at Notre Dame Stadium.
Nov 8, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) gets tackled by Navy Midshipmen linebacker Coleman Cauley (58) during the first half at Notre Dame Stadium. | Michael Caterina-Imagn Images

While other teams have wasted no time hoarding talent in free agency, the Jacksonville Jaguars have taken a methodical approach, limiting the number of players they've signed or brougth back. So far, the only external free agent they've signed is running back Chris Rodriguez. And even then, he won't count toward the compensatory pick formula because the Washington Commanders opted not to tender him.

You could argue that Gladstone's dearth of activity is frustrating, but he just doesn't want to make a splash signing for the sake of it. Instead, he's trying to acquire future assets because the roster is in good shape after finishing 13-4 last year. Already, he's acquired three extra selections in 2027 for the players who left Jacksonville this year.

Of course, the Jaguars have several pressing needs, and they need to address them if they want to make a deep playoff push next season. That's precisely what they do in this four-round NFL mock draft.

Round 2, pick 56: The Jaguars select Christen Miller, Georgia defensive tackle

Christen Miller gives the Jaguars the game-altering talent they sorely need at defensive tackle. At 6'4" and 310 pounds, he has the size and athleticism to wreak havoc in the interior trenches. While he needs to work on his hand usage and fundamentals, Jacksonville would love to have him at No. 56.

You have probably heard that teams shouldn't draft for a need, but leaving aside that the Jags need reinforcements at defensive tackle, Miller is a playmaker.

Round 3, pick 81: The Jaguars select Jadarian Price, Notre Dame running back

This could be a bold pick, but the Jaguars couldn't pass up on a playmaker regardless of the position. The Jags just signed Chris Rodriguez, and Bhayshul Tuten is poised to have a bigger role following Travis Etienne's departure. However, Jadarian Price could take the Jacksonville backfield to the next level.

Granted, Price needs to work on his pass-blocking skills and become a better pass catcher out of the backfield, but the Jaguars could use his game-changing speed.

Round 3: pick 88: The Jaguars select Malik Muhammad, Texas cornerback

The Jaguars just re-signed Montaric Brown, and Travis Hunter is slated to play defense full-time in 2026. That said, they could use depth at cornerback, especially in the boundaries. At No. 88, Malik Muhammad would be a great addition.

This isn't a great year to find perimeter cornerbacks. Muhammad would be one of the few who'll probably be available in the third round. While he needs to bulk up a bit and refine his tackling skills, he could develop behind Brown and Hunter. By Year 2, he could compete for a featured role on defense.

Round 3, pick 100: The Jaguars select Malachi Lawrence, UCF pass rusher

One of the reasons the Jaguars haven't taken a big swing at defensive end is that they already have a pair of ferocious pass rushers in Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen. What they lack is a No. 3 behind them. Malachi Lawrence could be that player.

Lawrence possesses outstanding burst off the line of scrimmage and has already developed a repertoire of pass-rush moves. On the other hand, he needs to do a better job of sticking to his assignment and containing the edge. Still, he could become a high-impact player down the road.

Round 4, pick 124: The Jaguars select Bryce Lance, North Dakota State receiver

Just recently, Bryce Lance was dubbed a potential draft gem that could give Jacksonville a deep threat. Although the Jaguars don't plan to trade Brian Thomas Jr., the former North Dakota State could provide depth at receiver and serve as insurance in case Thomas doesn't bounce back.

Lance's release could use some work. The same is true for his release, but his size and speed would give Trevor Lawrence a dynamic weapon.

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