PFF projects the Jaguars to check off a massive box on defense in 2025 NFL Draft
The Jacksonville Jaguars have a 2-7 record ahead of Week 10 and will probably miss the playoffs. The silver lining is that they could clinch a high draft pick by virtue of having one of the worst records in the NFL, especially if quarterback Trevor Lawrence opts to have surgery on his shoulder. Bradley Locker of Pro Football Talk believes the Jags will use the selection they get to land the top cornerback prospect in the nation.
Locker made a simulation of the 2025 NFL Draft and has Jacksonville landing Will Johnson. He believes the Michigan product will give a much-needed boost to a secondary that is currently among the worst at defending the pass in the league. Here's the skinny on the pick.
"The Jaguars defense has lacked cohesion throughout 2024, sitting 32nd in EPA per play. Upgrading the secondary would help, and Johnson fits the bill perfectly. The Wolverine has posted an overall grade of 75.0 or better in the last three years, racking up at least two interceptions and two pass breakups in all of those campaigns."
There was recently chatter about Johnson protecting his draft stock because he missed a game. However, Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore was quick to shut down speculation, pointing out that the junior cornerback was dealing with a foot injury, and if he would've played if he had been healthy.
This season, Johnson has played 279 defensive snaps, giving up 16 receptions on 26 targets for 195 yards. Moreover, the 2023 All-American nod hasn't surrendered a touchdown and has logged two interceptions.
If the Jaguars miss on Johnson but still want to bolster their secondary, they could target Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter, who's excelled as a receiver but has also showcased the ability to play corner at a high level. In fact, a handful of mocks have them picking the Heisman candidate.
Will Johnson could have an immediate impact for the Jaguars in 2025
Cornerback could most definitely be a top priority for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2025. After all, they have Tyson Campbell but need someone else who can line up on the opposite side of the field. Montaric Brown has come through when called upon but may be better suited for a backup role.
Rookie Jarrian Jones could also play outside, but it looks like he's a better fit in the slot. Also in the mix is veteran Ronald Darby, who signed a two-year deal in free agency but has struggled throughout the season.
Will Johnson could come in and give the Jags' cornerback boost right off the bat. He could compete with Brown for the starting job in the offseason, and if he isn't ready, the Jags could afford to have him sit behind his veteran counterpart until he's good to go. Having said that, Jacksonville will have many needs to address aside from corner.
After trading Cam Robinson to the Minnesota Vikings, Walker Little became the starter at left tackle. The trouble is that he's slated to become a free agent in 2025, and if he walks, the team's brass will need to replace him and could use a high pick in the draft to do so.
The Jaguars may also need to bolster the interior defensive line next year despite the fact that they drafted Maason Smith and Jordan Jefferson in 2024. So far, neither has made a huge impact and the former has been dealing with injuries. While both of them might need time to develop, the front office is better off erring on the side of caution and spending a high pick at the position.
The bottom line is that the Jacksonville Jaguars will probably have to fill several roster holes to fill, but Will Johnson would most definitely be a good pick.