Jaguars GM Hints at Potential First-Round Trade Up

James Gladstone's comments suggest the Jaguars could be aggressive in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:41pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a football player making a tackle, with the figure broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in teal, black, and white, conveying the Jaguars' aggressive approach to the upcoming draft.The Jaguars' draft strategy aims to reconstruct their defense through an aggressive approach to the 2026 NFL Draft.Today in Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Jaguars don't have a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, but general manager James Gladstone hinted that the team may be willing to trade up to address key needs on the defensive line and pass rush. Gladstone's past experience trading picks with the Los Angeles Rams suggests the Jaguars have the draft capital to make a move into the first round.

Why it matters

The Jaguars have several pressing needs on the defensive side of the ball, and trading up could allow them to land one of the top defensive tackle or pass rusher prospects in this year's class. Gladstone's willingness to be aggressive in the draft has paid dividends for the team in the past, and fans will be closely watching to see if the Jaguars make a bold move to improve their roster.

The details

The Jaguars don't have a first-round pick in 2026, with their first selection coming at No. 56 overall in the second round. However, Gladstone pointed out that he's been in this position before, noting that when he was with the Los Angeles Rams, their first pick was even later at No. 104 overall. Gladstone said the Jaguars are 'always thinking through what might we be able to do' in terms of potential trades, suggesting they could look to move up in the draft.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26.
  • The Jaguars' first pick is currently scheduled for the 56th overall selection in the second round.

The players

James Gladstone

The general manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars, who previously held a front office role with the Los Angeles Rams.

Liam Coen

The head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Kayden McDonalds

A top defensive tackle prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Peter Woods

A top defensive tackle prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Caleb Banks

A top defensive tackle prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“We've been through it before. There is no doubt, we've waited longer. 104 was our first pick. So we get to cut that in half, a little bit, you know what I mean?”

— James Gladstone, General Manager, Jacksonville Jaguars

“You're always thinking through what might we be able to do. And I think that mental gymnastics certainly is an engaging element, regardless of where your first pick point is.”

— James Gladstone, General Manager, Jacksonville Jaguars

What’s next

The Jaguars will continue to evaluate their draft options and potential trade scenarios leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft. If they decide to trade up, it will likely be to target a top defensive tackle or pass rusher prospect.

The takeaway

James Gladstone's comments suggest the Jaguars are willing to be aggressive in the 2026 NFL Draft, even without a first-round pick. The team's ample draft capital could allow them to trade up and land an impact player to address their defensive needs.