Jaguars must keep an eye on this WR prospect after astounding Pro Day

• Texas WR Xavier Worthy is moving up draft boards, the Jaguars need to keep an eye on him.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Xavier Worthy (1) runs the ball during the Sugar Bowl College Football
Texas Longhorns wide receiver Xavier Worthy (1) runs the ball during the Sugar Bowl College Football / Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman /
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After losing Calvin Ridley in free agency, wide receiver has become a need for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Fortunately for them, they're in a position to take one of the top prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. That said, they also need to address the cornerback position. And if they go cornerback at No. 17, they can wait until the second round to target Xavier Worthy, who's coming off an outstanding performance at the Texas Pro Day.

Worthy turned heads at the NFL Scouting Combine when his 4.21-second time set a new record for the 40-yard dash. He followed it up with a superb outing at his pro day.

Even before his pro day, Xorthy had been moving up on draft boards, with several scouts projecting him to go in the first round. Count Jordan Schultz of Bleacher Report among those who are impressed with the former Texas standout.

A four-star recruit out of high school, Worthy gave the Longhorns a deep threat that opened things up on offense. During his three-year stint, he hauled in 197 catches for 2,755 yards with 26 touchdowns. That said, he needs to cut down on the drops. Also, his small frame may limit his impact in the NFL. At 5'11" and 165 pounds, he could have trouble against press coverage.

Having said that, a good coach should have no trouble working around Worthy's shortcomings. Simply put, his production and performances at the scouting combine and the Texas Pro Day make him an intriguing prospect. Even though they're not scheduled to meet with him as of this writing, the Jags should most definitely keep an eye on him.

Xavier Worthy offers the Jaguars an option at wide receiver

After a productive free-agency haul, receiver, cornerback, and the pass rush are the top remaining needs for the Jaguars. It's hard to tell which one they'll prioritize in the draft, but they'll have options for all of them. It's also worth noting that outside of the top 3 picks, there's no telling how the first round will play out. That will impact every team's strategy. But for the sake of argument, let's say Jacksonville wants to take a receiver at No. 17.

Marvin Harrison Jr. and Malik Nabers will most likely be gone. Rome Odunze will probably be off the board as well. If the Jags want to take him, they may need to trade up. But if they stay put, they should be in a position to take Brian Thomas Jr. or Keon Coleman. Worthy's former teammate, Adonai Mitchell, could also be available. In fact, he's become a trendy pick for Jacksonville but there's a chance he'll make it to the second round.

Worthy may also be on the board in Round 2 despite his amazing Pro Day. The truth is that wide receiver isn't a need for all teams. This will push back a handful of players worthy of being drafted in the top 32 to the second round.

The bottom line is that Xavier Worthy is getting the spotlight after his Pro Day. It's uncertain how much his draft stock has gone up but the Jacksonville Jaguars should most definitely keep an eye on him.

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