Jaguars 4-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Jags fix O-Line issues and bolster the pass rush

Round 3: Cristian Haynes, offensive guard

Without a second-round selection, the Jaguars will need to wait until the third round to make their next pick. The good news is that there will still be plenty of talent available at that point of the draft. Having bolstered the pass rush, the team's brass can now turn their attention to the offensive trenches.

The Jaguars have had trouble getting the running going in 2023. Particularly, it's been an issue to run to the right side, both between the tackles and around the edge. While first-year right tackle Anton Harrison is still a work in progress, he's getting better by the week. He should make a leap next year. On the other hand, it's hard to see right guard Brandon Scherff getting better.

Scherff hasn't been necessarily bad this season but he hasn't been great and he's been paid like a top guard. Simply, his performance doesn't reflect his salary and he's set to have a cap hit of $23.967 million in 2024. By releasing him, Jacksonville would free up $9.09 million in space with $14.868 in dead money. They could then those extra funds to go after Robert Hunt or Kevin Dotson in free agency.

But even if the Jaguars add a guard in free agency, Christian Haynes of UConn would be an appealing addition in the third round. A two-star prospect coming out of high school, Haynes started 37 games for the Huskies. He only gave up seven total pressures and one sack on 437 pass-block snaps this season. Moreover, he finished the year with a Pro Football Focus overall grade of 82.6.

The Maryland native is solid in pass protection but where he truly shines is in the running game. His blend of power and speed allows him to move defenders and get to the second level. Given how much the Jaguars have struggled to open holes in 2023, Haynes would be a welcome addition to the interior offensive line.