Jaguars Eyeing Experienced, Versatile Prospects in 2026 Draft

Jacksonville's draft strategy focuses on senior players and multi-position talent

Mar. 28, 2026 at 4:19pm

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The Jacksonville Jaguars are preparing for a pivotal 2026 NFL Draft, armed with 11 picks to further shape their roster. According to reports, the team is expected to target experienced senior prospects and players with versatile skill sets, building on a similar approach from last year's draft class.

Why it matters

The Jaguars' draft strategy reflects their desire to add NFL-ready talent that can contribute immediately. By focusing on seniors and multi-position prospects, the team aims to accelerate the growth and development of their roster under the new Liam Coen/James Gladstone regime.

The details

In 2025, 7 of the Jaguars' 9 draft picks were seniors, with the only exceptions being Travis Hunter Jr. and LeQuint Allen Jr. The team also prioritized versatility, with players like Travis Hunter, Caleb Ransaw, and Wyatt Milum able to play multiple positions. Additionally, the Jaguars have shown a willingness to target transfer success stories, having drafted players like Hunter, Bhayshul Tuten, Ransaw, and Jalen McLeod after they excelled at new programs.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is just one month away.

The players

James Gladstone

The Jacksonville Jaguars' general manager, who has emphasized the value of experienced and versatile prospects in the draft.

Liam Coen

The Jacksonville Jaguars' head coach, who shares Gladstone's philosophy on targeting senior players and multi-position talent.

Travis Hunter Jr.

A 2025 Jaguars draft pick who can play both wide receiver and cornerback, exemplifying the team's focus on versatility.

LeQuint Allen Jr.

A 2025 Jaguars draft pick who has offensive and special teams value, another example of the team's emphasis on multi-faceted prospects.

Caleb Ransaw

A 2025 Jaguars draft pick who transitioned from cornerback to safety, showcasing the team's willingness to target transfer success stories.

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What they’re saying

“Another thing here is when you think about it, right, one of the things I really value -- I know Liam [Coen] does the same -- but when a guy goes from a small school to a big school and you see production continue to pop, that is a meaningful element, and that's something you can think back to guys that I've been a part of drafting in the past.”

— James Gladstone, Jacksonville Jaguars General Manager

What’s next

The Jaguars will look to continue this draft strategy when they make their 11 selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, which begins on April 24th.

The takeaway

The Jaguars' focus on experienced, versatile, and transfer success story prospects in the draft reflects their desire to accelerate the growth and development of their roster under the new coaching staff. This approach aims to provide immediate contributions and long-term value for a team looking to build on its recent progress.