Jaguars 2023 NFL Draft: The case for Taking an Offensive Tackle in Round 1
Don't forget about Jacksonville Jaguars OT Walker Little
Walker Little is entering his third year with the Jaguars after being drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He has served as the “swing tackle” during that time after competing with Jawaan Taylor for the starting job at right tackle last offseason.
However, after Robinson went down in week 14 against the Dallas Cowboys, Little stepped into the starting role on the left and continued through the remainder of the regular season, as well as two games in the postseason. His performance during that time is what has led to so much discussion about how to get him into the starting left tackle spot permanently.
Robinson likely has some pretty decent trade value, so replacing him with Little and finding a new swing tackle might be a great move from a value standpoint.
The Jaguars must fill the void at RT after letting Jawaan Taylor leave
Jawaan Taylor has been the Jaguars starting right tackle for the last four seasons after being drafted in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. However, he was allowed to test free agency this offseason and ended up signing a contract with the Kansas City Chiefs to take over at left tackle. This has left a void on the right side that could be filled by Walker Little, but based on what we’ve seen, he appears to be a significantly better fit on the left.
Enter Josh Wells, the Jaguars' most recent addition to their offensive line. Wells is a former undrafted free agent signing of the Jacksonville Jaguars back in the 2014 offseason who they recently re-signed. He remained on the roster through the end of the 2018 season. He then joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, earning a Super Bowl ring in the process.
Wells is credited with seven starts last season, all coming on the right side, and garnering a positive grade from Pro Football Focus. This crucial addition to the roster really gives the team flexibility to put together the best line possible between Robinson, Little, Wells, and possibly a draft pick in the first round.