Jaguars Add Pair Of Elite Defenders With First Two Picks In Ideal Mock Draft
April 6, 2025
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The Jacksonville Jaguars have undergone some massive changes this offseason.
Head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke were both fired after a miserable 2024 season. Liam Coen was brought in to be the next head coach and James Gladstone was brought in to be the new general manager.
The team made some notable additions in free agency, including cornerback Jourdan Lewis and offensive lineman Patrick Mekari. However, there are still some glaring needs on the team’s roster, and the 2025 NFL Draft should help fill some of those.
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 15: Shahid Khan, owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars, talks with Trevor Lawrence #16 before the game against the New York Jets at EverBank Stadium on December 15, 2024 in Jacksonville, Florida…. JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 15: Shahid Khan, owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars, talks with Trevor Lawrence #16 before the game against the New York Jets at EverBank Stadium on December 15, 2024 in Jacksonville, Florida. Shad Khan seemingly takes shot at Aaron Rodgers while discussing the coaching change in Jacksonville.
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NFL draft analyst Chad Reuter recently identified the ideal first two draft picks for each team. For the Jaguars, Reuter identified Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham and Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston as logical selections.
Regarding those picks for the Jaguars, Reuter offered the following:
The Jaguars did not add to the defensive line in free agency, so they take the top remaining defender in the draft at No. 5 overall. Graham played multiple spots for Michigan due to his combination of low pad level, quick feet and pure resolve. He’ll pair with 2024 second-round pick Maason Smith to bolster the team’s front. Even after signing nickel corner Jourdan Lewis, the Jags must find another outside corner in the first three rounds. At 5-11 and 183 pounds, Hairston does not possess great size, but his speed and tenacity make him a top-40 prospect.
As Reuter mentioned, the Jaguars didn’t address the defensive line in free agency, so Graham is an obvious fit.
In 2024, Graham played in 12 games for the Michigan Wolverines and racked up 45 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. The defender earned First-team All-American honors after the strong season.
In Jacksonville, Graham could immediately start at one of the defensive tackle spots next to 2024 draft pick Maason Smith. DaVon Hamilton is currently slated to start, but the veteran struggled in 2024 and ended with a 54.5 Pro Football Focus grade.
Meanwhile, Hairston could immediately challenge Jarrian Jones for a starting outside corner spot. Hairston impressed at the combine, securing the fastest 40-Yard Dash time among all players.
The Kentucky product is a slender, long corner who is capable of excelling in zone or man coverage. Hairston ended his college career with 89 combined tackles, three tackles for loss, one sack, six interceptions, and 10 pass deflections.
The Jaguars allowed the most passing yards in the league in 2024, so the defense definitely needs an infusion of young talent this offseason.
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