Top TE prospect Brock Bowers hopes to go to Jaguars' division foe in 2024 NFL Draft

Georgia tight end Brock Bowers is projected to go in the top 10 of the 2024 NFL Draft. Given that the Jacksonville Jaguars will pick at No. 17 and aren't in particular need at the position, it's hard to see them making a run for him. That said, they may have to face him twice a season if he lands with the team he hopes.

Bowers outright said in an appearance on Pro Football Talk that he wants to be drafted by the Tennessee Titans, who hold the seventh overall selection. He may or may not be on the board when they're on the clock but there's a realistic chance his wish will be granted. Currently, Chris Trapasso has the 2023-2024 John Mackie Award winner going to the New York Giants at No. 6.

On the other hand, Matt Miller has Bowers falling to the New Orleans Saints at No. 14. Despite both draft analysts mocking offensive tackle Joe Alt to the Titans, they could most certainly use the former Bulldog. Their top two tight ends are currently Chigoziem Okonkwo and Josh Whyle. The former has been reliable and the latter has upsides but neither one is what you could consider a game-changer, tallying a combined 63 receptions between the two last year.

This is why it would make sense for the Titans to go after Bowers in the draft. A four-star prospect coming out of high school, the California native is an outstanding receiving target in the passing game with solid blocking skills. He would be a much-welcome addition to a Tennesse offense that's devoid of talent. On the other hand, the Titans must also protect quarterback Will Levis. Hence, the Joe Alt pick. Either way, it's easy to picture them going offense early in the draft.

Why are the Jaguars not a landing spot for Brock Bowers?

The Jaguars have a star tight end in Evan Engram. After breaking several team records and setting new personal bests in 2022, the former Ole Miss Rebel was even better last year. He was one of Jacksonville's most productive weapons, hauling in 114 receptions for 963 yards with four touchdowns. On top of that, he moved the chains 47 times. Behind him, they have 2023 second-round pick Brenton Strange and fourth-year pro Luke Farrell.

Strange was underwhelming in his rookie season, catching a measly five passes for 35 yards. He was a reliable blocker but the Jaguars surely expected a bit more. Maybe he needs a bit of time to hit his stride but he's got the tools to develop into a starting tight end.

On the other hand, Farrell has delivered when called upon, both as a receiver and as a blocker. With the three of them in the mix, Jacksonville may not draft a tight end in 2024, let alone one in the first round.

It's a good thing the Jacksonville Jaguars don't have to worry about the tight end position this offseason. However, they have their work cut out in the offseason if they want to catch up to the Houston Texans and fend off the Tennessee Titans, who may be much better than they were last year, especially if they land Brock Bowers.

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