Jaguars Bolster Pass Rush With 3-Round NFL Draft Haul

Jacksonville adds key pieces to defensive front after playoff loss to Bills

Apr. 4, 2026 at 5:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Jacksonville Jaguars are looking to build on their surprise 13-4 season and AFC South division title in 2026 by addressing a glaring weakness - the pass rush. In this 3-round mock draft, the Jaguars extend star defensive end Travon Walker, then add reinforcements at defensive tackle and edge rusher to complement their existing defensive core.

Why it matters

The Jaguars' inability to pressure Bills quarterback Josh Allen in the playoffs exposed a need to upgrade their pass rush. By investing heavily in the defensive line through the draft, Jacksonville aims to create a more balanced and disruptive defense that can compete with the AFC's elite teams.

The details

In the 2nd round, the Jaguars select Lee Hunter, a run-stuffing defensive tackle from Texas Tech who can take pressure off star pass rushers Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen. In the 3rd round, they add depth at cornerback with Will Lee III from Texas A&M, then double down on the defensive line with Domonique Orange from Iowa State and Derrick Moore from Michigan to bolster their interior and edge rushes.

  • The Jaguars signed Travon Walker to a 4-year, $110 million contract extension with $77 million guaranteed in the offseason.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft takes place from April 24-26.

The players

Travon Walker

The Jaguars' star defensive end, who they just signed to a lucrative contract extension after a breakout 2026 season.

Josh Hines-Allen

The Jaguars' other starting defensive end, who forms a formidable pass-rushing duo with Travon Walker.

Lee Hunter

A defensive tackle from Texas Tech who the Jaguars select in the 2nd round to bolster their interior defensive line.

Will Lee III

A cornerback from Texas A&M that the Jaguars take in the 3rd round to add depth to their secondary.

Domonique Orange

An Iowa State defensive tackle the Jaguars select in the 3rd round to provide more reinforcements up front.

Derrick Moore

A Michigan edge rusher that the Jaguars take in the 3rd round to boost their pass rush.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Jaguars will look to build on their 13-4 season and AFC South division title in 2026 by addressing their pass rush needs through the upcoming NFL Draft in April.

The takeaway

By investing heavily in their defensive line through the draft, the Jaguars are positioning themselves to field a more balanced and disruptive defense that can compete with the top teams in the AFC. The additions of Lee Hunter, Domonique Orange, and Derrick Moore should help take pressure off star pass rushers Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen, giving the Jaguars a formidable front four.