Grading all 9 picks the Jaguars made in the 2024 NFL Draft
Jarrian Jones, CB - Round 3, pick 96
Fans were getting fidgety because the Jaguars passed on several chances to take a cornerback in Rounds 1 and 2. They finally took one, Jarrian Jones, near the end of the third round. In their defense, general manager Trent Baalke said that they wanted to trade up but weren't able to find a partner. Still, the Jones pick got plenty of praise.
Jones played both ways in high school and fully focused on defense once he began his college career. His background as a receiver, though, is a plus, as he excels at tracking the football in the air. The former Florida State Seminole can line up inside or outside but he's a much better nickel at this stage of his career. Last season, he gave up only 16 receptions and none went for touchdowns.
While head coach Doug Pederson expects Jones to start his career in the slot, Baalke points out that he's got the size to play anywhere. If he does end up starting in the boundaries in 2025, the selection will look much better. For the time being, it looks solid.
Grade: B-
Javon Foster, OT - Round 4, pick 114
Offensive tackle wasn't a pressing need for the Jaguars but that shouldn't stop them from adding depth on Day 3. The front office used their first of two fourth-round picks in Mizzou offensive tackle Javon Foster. All things considered, this was a good, albeit unspectacular selection.
Foster, a three-year starter for the Tigers, has mostly lined up at left tackle, but head coach Doug Pederson told the media that he envisions him playing on either side. Barring a sudden development, the Michigan native will enter training camp at the bottom of the depth chart. There, he'll be able to work on his footwork and hand usage.
Barring any sudden changes, Foster won't probably get much playing time as a rookie but he should be the team's swing tackle next year. Having said that, if he really impresses the coaching staff, he could vie for a starting job. Cam Robinson and Walker Little are set to become free agents in 2025. At worst, Foster will provide insurance at offensive tackle.
Grade: C+