NFL players and coaches hate losing more than they like winning. Having said that, a silver lining came out of the loss the Jacksonville Jaguars experienced against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 16. Heading into the game, they were trending toward getting the No. 4 pick in the draft but are now on pace to get the third overall selection. It's just one spot but it could make a heck of a difference.
Back when the Jags had the No. 1 pick, nothing would've stopped them from locking on Travis Hunter, one of the most exciting players to come out of the collegiate ranks in recent years. However, it would become increasingly challenging if they ended up with the fourth or fifth overall pick, as the New England Patriots or another team could call dibs on the Heisman Trophy winner.
But for the sake of the argument, let's say the Pats go after defensive tackle or pass rusher Abdul Carter and the Jags stay at No. 3. They would be in a perfect spot to take Hunter, which is precisely what they do in this three-round mock draft.
Round 1, pick 3: Travis Hunter, CB, WR, Colorado
Travis Hunter has yet to confirm what position he'll play full-time in the pros, but the Jaguars could use him on either side of the ball. On offense, they could pair him up with rookie sensation Brian Thomas Jr., who's having a heck of a season and has broken multiple team records. On defense, Jacksonville needs a cornerback opposite Tyson Campbell, so he would fit like a glove.
However, the Jags take Hunter in this mock with the intention of adding another weapon to Trevor Lawrence's arsenal. This will ensure that No. 16 is in a position to succeed once he's back from the surgery he underwent to repair his shoulder.
Round 2, pick 35: Trey Amos, cornerback, Ole Miss Rebel
Having checked off a crucial box in the first round, the Jaguars can now turn their attention to the defense with the No. 35 pick, which they use on cornerback Trey Amos.
Campbell has lived up to the $76.5 million contract he signed in the offseason but Jacksonville has struggled to fill the cornerback spot on the opposite side of the field. Ronald Darby just got benched while Montaric Brown has held his own at times but is inconsistent and is better suited for a backup role. Deantre Prince is also in the mix but is a project at this stage of his career.
Amos would immediately solidify the spot opposite Campbell. While the Ole Miss product needs to work on his tackling technique, he's got the size and athleticism to thrive at the NFL level. Moreover, he lined up in the slot for Alabama before he transferred with the Rebels. That kind of versatility will be welcomed in Duval.
Round 3, pick 67: Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama
Tyler Booker doesn't have the quickest feet and would need to switch sides in Jacksonville. However, he would be the ideal replacement for right guard Brandon Scherff who's slated to become a free agent in 2025.
Scherff isn't nearly as dominant as he was during his days with the Washington Commanders and will be 33 next year. The draft would give the Jaguars a chance to find his heir apparent, and Booker would be an intriguing option in Round 3.
Round 3, pick 94: Billy Bowman Jr., S, Alabama
Andre Cisco was expected to break out this season but has instead seen a decrease in his playing time because he's struggled at times. He's slated to become a free agent in 2025, and the Jaguars could try to re-sign him. However, nobody would bat an eye if they let him walk. If that's the case, they could target Billy Bowman Jr. in Round 3 next year.
Bowman lacks ideal size and speed for the position but has still managed to thrive at Alabama because of his instincts and football IQ. He may need time to hit stride in the NFL but could end up becoming a dependable safety for the Jaguars.