Unheralded 2024 Jaguars draft picks who can surge up the depth chart

2. Javon Foster, OT - Round 4, pick 114

The Jaguars gave their original third-round pick as part of the trade for Calvin Ridley in 2022, but they were awarded a compensatory one. That selection became offensive tackle Javon Foster, who will begin training camp at the cellar of the depth chart.

At first sight, it didn't make sense to draft Foster when you take into account that they have three capable starting left tackles: Cam Robinson, Walker Little, and Anton Harrison, who lined up on the right side as a rookie but mostly played left tackle at Oklahoma.

Then again, you can never have too many good players. Add the fact that Walker and Robinson are set to become free agents, and bringing Foster may be a sign that the Jaguars are bracing themselves for their potential departure.

It's also worth considering that the Jaguars could move on from Robinson at any point in 2023 and free up $17 million. They may be waiting for the right offer but if they end up moving him or Little, Foster's learning curve would accelerate.

Right now Little is the swing tackle. If either Robinson or Harrison gets hurt, he'll be the next in line, but what happens if the Jaguars trade Little or Robinson? It paves the way for Foster to become the primary backup offensive tackle. Granted, the former Mizzou Tiger has to polish his footwork and hand usage but that's expected from a player that's making the leap to the NFL.

The bottom line is that Foster landed in a favorable situation in Jacksonville. He could end up playing in 2024 if injuries rampage the offensive tackle position. It would be under less-than-ideal circumstances, but having Foster in the fold will help the Jaguars withstand Robinson's and Little's potential absence.