Jaguars find a replacement for Calvin Ridley in this 3-round 2024 NFL Mock Draft
• He's set to hit the open market in 2024
• If they let him walk, they can draft his replacement in Round 1
Round 2, pick 49: Chris Braswell, edge rusher - Alabama
The Jaguars already have a Christian Braswell on their roster, a sixth-round pick in last year's draft. That shouldn't stop them from adding another Chris Braswell in 2024. Leaving silliness aside, they desperately need to bolster their pass rush rotation. Although Josh Allen had a breakout season and Travon Walker made a leap in Year 2, Jacksonville is still missing a No. 3 edge rusher. Braswell could be it.
Braswell was the seventh-ranked prospect in the whole country coming out of high school. Throughout his time at Alabama, he showed the speed and power to wreak havoc at the line scrimmage. His explosive get-off, in particular, consistently put him in a position to make plays. On top of that, he excelled against the run but also showed the ability to drop in coverage and keep up with running backs. Although he doesn't have outstanding flexibility and ideal length, he's got enough upside to thrive in the NFL.
While Braswell isn't as highly rated as Dallas Turner or Chop Robinson, he has immense upside. Keep in mind that he didn't play much at Alabama but he improved as his playing time increased. In his senior season, he posted eight sacks, 10.5 tackles for a loss, and three forced fumbles.
It's fair to think that with better coaching, he'll be able to reach his potential. The fact that he won't have a feature role in Jacksonville could help, as playing behind Allen and Walker would take plenty of pressure off his shoulders.