Jaguars Prioritize Offense in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Jacksonville passes on defensive needs to bolster offense in recent 3-round projection

Feb. 24, 2026 at 12:18pm

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In a recent 2026 NFL mock draft, the Jacksonville Jaguars focused heavily on adding offensive talent, passing on their defensive needs. The Jaguars' four picks in the top 100 were used on a safety, center, running back, and tight end, rather than addressing their pass rush or linebacker corps.

Why it matters

The Jaguars' draft strategy highlights their offensive-minded approach, which could pay dividends if the picks pan out, but also raises questions about their ability to improve a defense that struggled at times in 2025. Addressing defensive needs like edge rusher and defensive tackle may have been the wiser path, especially if star linebacker Devin Lloyd departs in free agency.

The details

The Jaguars' four picks in the top 100 were: S Kamari Ramsey (USC) at 56th overall, C Jake Slaughter (Florida) at 81st overall, RB Jonah Coleman (Washington) at 88th overall, and TE Sam Roush (Stanford) at 100th overall. While the offensive additions could bolster the Jaguars' attack, they passed on addressing their defensive front and linebacker corps, which were areas of need.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.

The players

Kamari Ramsey

A defensive back from USC who played primarily in the slot or at deep safety, allowing just 8.4 yards per catch with 2 interceptions and 11 pass breakups in his college career.

Jake Slaughter

A center from the University of Florida who played over 2,100 career snaps, allowing just 4 sacks and 22 pressures during that span while grading out well as a run blocker.

Jonah Coleman

A running back from the University of Washington who rushed for 1,060 yards in 2024 and 758 yards in 2025, averaging over 5.0 yards per attempt with 25 touchdowns during that span.

Sam Roush

A tight end from Stanford University who was a big part of the passing game, totaling 80 targets last season while averaging 11.1 yards per catch.

Devin Lloyd

A star linebacker for the Jaguars who may depart in free agency, leaving a potential hole at the position.

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What they’re saying

“It feels like the Jaguars missed an opportunity to address their defensive front with four picks in the top 100. It's a deep edge rusher class, while defensive tackle is one of the team's biggest needs.”

— Paul Bretl, Author

What’s next

The Jaguars will continue to monitor the free agency market and prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, where they will have the opportunity to further address their defensive needs.

The takeaway

The Jaguars' draft strategy prioritizes offensive talent over defensive needs, which could pay off if the picks pan out but also raises questions about their ability to improve a defense that struggled at times in 2025. Addressing the defensive front and linebacker corps may have been the wiser path, especially with the potential departure of star LB Devin Lloyd.