Jaguars Trade Up, Boost Pass Rush in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Jacksonville moves up in Round 2 to target a top defensive end prospect.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:53am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented football players and equipment in teal, gold, and black, representing the Jacksonville Jaguars' aggressive approach to the 2026 NFL Draft.The Jaguars' bold move to trade up in the 2026 NFL Draft reflects their determination to build a championship-caliber roster through strategic roster additions.Kansas City Today

In a 2026 NFL mock draft, the Jacksonville Jaguars traded up in the second round to select Missouri edge rusher Zion Young, aiming to boost their pass rush behind Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen. The Jaguars also added Stanford tight end Sam Roush and Michigan interior defensive lineman Rayshaun Benny with their other Day 2 picks.

Why it matters

The Jaguars are looking to build on a promising 2025 season and take the next step towards contention in the AFC South. Upgrading the pass rush and adding complementary pieces on offense and defense could help them achieve that goal.

The details

To move up to pick No. 40, the Jaguars traded away picks 56, 88, 203, and 233 to the Kansas City Chiefs. At 40th overall, they selected Zion Young, a defensive end from Missouri who had a breakout 2025 campaign with 56 pressures and 8 sacks. With their other Day 2 picks, the Jaguars added Stanford tight end Sam Roush, who was a big part of the Cardinal's passing game, and Michigan interior defensive lineman Rayshaun Benny, a run-stopping presence.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

Zion Young

A defensive end from the University of Missouri who is generating first-round buzz ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft after recording 56 pressures and 8 sacks in 2025.

Sam Roush

A tight end from Stanford University who was a key part of the Cardinal's passing game, totaling 80 targets and averaging 11.1 yards per catch in 2025.

Rayshaun Benny

An interior defensive lineman from the University of Michigan who has played over 1,200 career snaps and is known for his ability to occupy blockers and stop the run.

James Gladstone

The general manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars, who is looking to build on the team's promising 2025 season and make aggressive moves in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Travon Walker

A defensive end for the Jacksonville Jaguars who will be paired with the team's new pass-rushing addition, Zion Young.

Josh Hines-Allen

Another defensive end for the Jacksonville Jaguars who will benefit from the team's efforts to boost their pass rush in the 2026 NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“Depth and improved pass-rush consistency behind Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen are needed.”

— Paul Bretl, Author

“Tight end is one of the positions that the Jaguars are 'expected to target right away on Day 2.'”

— Jordan Reid, ESPN

What’s next

The Jaguars will look to build on their 2026 draft class in free agency and continue to bolster their roster ahead of the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The Jaguars' aggressive move to trade up in the second round and target a top pass-rushing prospect in Zion Young shows their commitment to improving the team's defense and supporting their young core of talent. Complementing that with other Day 2 additions at tight end and on the defensive line could pay dividends as Jacksonville aims to take the next step in the AFC South.