Jaguars Fans Intrigued by Linebacker Trend in Mock Drafts

Several analysts predict Jacksonville will target linebacker in Round 2 despite other team needs

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:00am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp planes of color and form representing the dynamic action of a linebacker making a tackle.A cubist interpretation of the Jaguars' linebacker needs ahead of the NFL Draft.Today in Jacksonville

In recent NFL mock drafts, a surprising trend has emerged with multiple analysts projecting the Jacksonville Jaguars to select a linebacker in the second round of the upcoming draft. This comes despite the team having other pressing needs, such as the defensive line and pass rush. Analysts have connected the Jaguars to prospects like Anthony Hill Jr. (Texas), Jake Golday (Cincinnati), and Josiah Trotter (Missouri) at the 52nd overall pick.

Why it matters

The Jaguars have a clear need at linebacker after losing Devin Lloyd to free agency, but they may have other priorities to address first in the draft. This linebacker trend in mock drafts suggests analysts believe the team could target the position early, even if it doesn't align with the team's perceived biggest needs.

The details

The Jaguars met with Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. at the NFL Scouting Combine, indicating their interest. Cincinnati's Jake Golday and Missouri's Josiah Trotter have also been connected to Jacksonville in various mock drafts. While all three prospects have the potential to contribute as starting linebackers, the Jaguars may feel the need to focus on bolstering their defensive line and pass rush before addressing the linebacker corps.

  • The 2023 NFL Draft is less than two weeks away (April 27-29).

The players

Devin Lloyd

Former Jaguars linebacker who signed with the Carolina Panthers in free agency.

Ventrell Miller

Jaguars linebacker who the team is reportedly building around after Lloyd's departure.

Anthony Hill Jr.

Linebacker prospect from the University of Texas who has met with the Jaguars.

Jake Golday

Linebacker prospect from the University of Cincinnati who has been connected to the Jaguars in mock drafts.

Josiah Trotter

Linebacker prospect from the University of Missouri who has been linked to the Jaguars in mock drafts.

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What they’re saying

“If it were me, I would be thrilled to see that the team hasn't brought in other linebackers to compete with him.”

— Liam Coen, Jaguars Head Coach

What’s next

With the draft less than two weeks away, it will be interesting to see if the Jaguars do indeed target a linebacker early or if they address other needs on the defensive side of the ball.

The takeaway

The Jaguars have a clear need at linebacker, but they may have other priorities to address first in the draft. The emerging trend of analysts projecting the team to select a linebacker in the second round suggests the position could be in play, even if it doesn't perfectly align with the team's perceived biggest needs on the defensive line and pass rush.