3 NFL Draft Prospects Who Can Help Jaguars Address Major Need

Could one of these three 2026 NFL draft prospects help the Jaguars address a major position of need?

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:09pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a defensive tackle making a tackle, with sharp planes of teal, gold, and black colors creating a dynamic, multi-angled visual representation of the action.A cubist interpretation of a defensive tackle disrupting the play in the backfield, reflecting the Jaguars' need to add more playmakers up front.Today in Jacksonville

With defensive tackle being a position that the Jacksonville Jaguars should be looking to address in the 2026 NFL draft, the article examines three early-round prospects who could be on the team's radar. The Jaguars need more depth and pass-rush production from the interior defensive line, and these prospects - Gracen Halton, Rayshaun Benny, and Kaleb Proctor - could help fill that void.

Why it matters

The Jaguars' defensive tackle position is a key area of need heading into the 2026 NFL Draft. The team lacks depth and pass-rush ability from the interior, which was exposed down the stretch last season. Addressing this need through the draft could significantly improve the Jaguars' defensive front and overall pass rush.

The details

The Jaguars currently have Arik Armstead, DaVon Hamilton, Matt Dickerson, Maason Smith, and Keivie Rose on the roster at defensive tackle. However, the team needs more production and playmaking ability from this group. The three prospects highlighted - Gracen Halton, Rayshaun Benny, and Kaleb Proctor - have shown the ability to generate consistent pressure and make an impact against the run. Halton and Proctor in particular have impressive pass-rush numbers, while Benny is known for his ability to occupy blockers and disrupt running lanes.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 2026.

The players

Gracen Halton

A defensive tackle prospect from the University of Oklahoma who has generated consistent pass-rush production, ranking 28th among eligible defensive tackles in PFF's pass-rush win rate metric.

Rayshaun Benny

A defensive tackle prospect from the University of Michigan who has excelled as a run defender, using his length and physicality to occupy blockers and disrupt running lanes.

Kaleb Proctor

A defensive tackle prospect from Southeastern Louisiana University who showcased elite pass-rush ability last season, ranking third among FCS interior defenders in PFF's pass-rush win rate metric.

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What they’re saying

“He's an energetic, gap-to-gap rusher who can threaten guards on their edges or play his role as an effective twister.”

— Lance Zierlein, NFL.com Analyst

“He has good length and is consistent entering into block battles. He's an effective two-gapper who locates the ball-carrier and quickly sheds.”

— Lance Zierlein, NFL.com Analyst

“Proctor is an elite athlete with rare playmaking range. He's an elusive rusher with an explosive first step and the ability to unlock openings with varied approaches and angles.”

— Lance Zierlein, NFL.com Analyst

What’s next

The Jaguars will have the opportunity to address their defensive tackle needs in the 2026 NFL Draft, which is scheduled for April 2026. The team holds four picks in the top 100, providing them with the chance to potentially select one or more of these promising prospects.

The takeaway

The Jaguars' defensive tackle position is a clear area of need heading into the 2026 NFL Draft. By targeting prospects like Gracen Halton, Rayshaun Benny, and Kaleb Proctor, the team could significantly improve their interior pass rush and run defense, which were weaknesses last season. These three players have the potential to make an immediate impact and help the Jaguars' defense take a step forward.