Jaguars Explore Bold Trade to Regain First-Round Pick

Jacksonville GM James Gladstone considers creative options to move up in 2026 NFL Draft

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:40pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented, overlapping shapes and planes in shades of teal, gold, and black, conceptually representing the Jaguars' efforts to maneuver in the NFL draft.The Jaguars' front office explores innovative draft strategies to regain a first-round pick and bolster their roster for the future.Today in Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Jaguars, who currently hold the 56th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after trading away their first-rounder, are exploring a bold trade scenario that could see them regain a first-round selection. General Manager James Gladstone is weighing options to package some of the team's multiple third-round picks to move up the board and land a coveted first-round talent.

Why it matters

The Jaguars are looking to build on a promising 2025 season and believe adding a top prospect in the first round could provide a significant boost. Regaining a first-round pick would give them more flexibility to address key needs and potentially land an impact player to help the team take the next step.

The details

According to reports, the Jaguars are eyeing a potential trade with the Seattle Seahawks, who hold the 32nd overall pick. Jacksonville would likely need to package their second-round selection (No. 56) along with one of their three third-rounders (No. 100) to move up the board. The team may also need to include a sweetener, such as a late-round pick, to entice the Seahawks. This would leave the Jaguars with nine total picks in the 2026 draft, including two in the third round, as well as 10 projected selections in 2027.

  • The Jaguars traded their 2026 first-round pick (No. 24) to the Cleveland Browns as part of the Travis Hunter deal last year.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

James Gladstone

The Jacksonville Jaguars' general manager, who previously worked in the front office of the Los Angeles Rams and is exploring creative ways to regain a first-round pick in the 2026 draft.

Liam Coen

The Jaguars' head coach, who has collaborated with Gladstone on the team's draft strategy.

Tony Boselli

The Jaguars' executive vice president of football operations, whose input factors into the team's draft decisions.

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What they’re saying

“We're not going to force anything, but if there's a way to get back into the first round without giving up too much, we'll certainly explore it.”

— James Gladstone, General Manager, Jacksonville Jaguars

“Liam and I have a good feel for how to build a roster through the draft, even without a first-rounder. But adding that extra top pick could be a game-changer for us.”

— James Gladstone, General Manager, Jacksonville Jaguars

What’s next

The Jaguars will continue to evaluate trade options leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, with the goal of regaining a first-round selection without sacrificing too much of their overall draft capital.

The takeaway

The Jaguars' willingness to explore bold moves to improve their roster demonstrates their commitment to building a contender in Jacksonville. While surrendering a first-round pick last year was a tough decision, the team is now looking to get creative and find a way to get back into the opening round, which could pay dividends in their quest to return to the playoffs.