Jacksonville Jaguars 3-Round Mock Draft: Fortifying the Trenches and the Secondary

This is an in depth article of a 3 round mock draft for the Jacksonville Jaguars. These picks are from a mock draft in which I controlled all 32 teams. I drafted according to what I believe are the team’s positional needs, how the prospects fit their scheme, and how the players are valued according to my own big board. Since it is early in the offseason, I did no trades. There will be a separate article published for each NFL team from this same mock draft gradually, so stay tuned!

Round 1, Pick 5: DT Mason Graham, Michigan

The Jaguars make a statement with their first selection, landing Mason Graham, the dominant defensive tackle out of Michigan. Graham is one of the most efficient interior defensive linemen prospects in recent memory, boasting Hall of Fame potential. A true blue chip player, Graham is a technician in the trenches with elite hand usage, power, and a relentless motor. His presence would drastically improve Jacksonville’s defensive line, creating opportunities for Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker to thrive off the edge. Pairing him with Maason Smith inside provides the Jaguars with a young and dynamic defensive interior, while veteran Arik Armstead serves as the perfect mentor to help Graham reach his full potential.

Graham’s impact goes beyond just his physical talent. His leadership, high football IQ, and ability to elevate those around him make him a culture changing player for Jacksonville. With his ability to penetrate gaps and command double teams, Graham will allow the Jaguars to be more aggressive in their defensive schemes, leading to improved pass rush and run defense. He’s the kind of cornerstone player that can define a defensive unit for years to come and that will prove to be irreplaceable under a new offensive head coach in Liam Coen.

Round 2, Pick 36: CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame

The Jaguars fielded the worst secondary in the league last season, and addressing that issue early is a must. Benjamin Morrison, a technically refined outside cornerback from Notre Dame, is the perfect addition. Morrison brings pristine fundamentals, fluid movement, and strong ball skills. This makes him an ideal boundary complement to Tyson Campbell while allowing Jarrian Jones to solidify the slot. With Morrison in the fold, Jacksonville takes a major step toward fielding a respectable secondary and mitigating the defensive back struggles that plagued them in 2024.

Morrison’s instincts and discipline stand out among this year’s cornerback class. He has a natural ability to read the quarterback’s eyes, anticipate routes, and react with precise timing. His ability to mirror receivers and limit separation ensures that he can thrive in man coverage, while his awareness and football intelligence make him just as effective in zone schemes. Given the Jaguars’ struggles against the deep ball last season, Morrison’s ability to limit explosive plays will be invaluable.

Additionally, Morrison brings an attitude and toughness that the Jacksonville secondary has sorely lacked. His ability to press receivers at the line and remain physical throughout routes will help set the tone for a more aggressive defensive backfield. With him in the lineup, the Jaguars can build a young and formidable secondary that has the potential to grow into one of the league’s best.

Round 3, Pick 70: OL Grey Zabel, North Dakota State

Few offensive linemen improved their draft stock as much as Grey Zabel did during the Senior Bowl, and the Jaguars capitalize on his versatility here. Zabel, who could easily rise as high as the first round, is an intelligent and powerful blocker with the ability to play multiple positions across the offensive line. Jacksonville can develop him as a future left tackle behind Walker Little, plug him in at right guard to replace Brandon Scherff, or even mentor him as Mitch Morse’s eventual successor at center. No matter where he plays, Zabel brings a tenacious work ethic and a technically sound approach to the Jaguars’ offensive front.

Zabel’s small school background shouldn’t overshadow his immense talent. At North Dakota State, he consistently dominated at the point of attack showcasing elite footwork, hand placement, and balance. His ability to pick up stunts, maintain leverage, and anchor against powerful pass rushers makes him a potential day one contributor. His versatility means the Jaguars have multiple options for integrating him into the offensive line rotation, ensuring depth and flexibility for years to come.

Beyond his physical attributes, Zabel’s intelligence and adaptability make him a coach’s dream. He processes defensive schemes quickly, communicates effectively, and has a relentless drive to improve. With proper NFL coaching, he could develop into an anchor for Jacksonville’s offensive line and provide the much needed stability for quarterback Trevor Lawrence that Liam Coen has emphasized.

Round 3, Pick 88: S Kevin Winston Jr., Penn State

With their final pick in this mock draft, the Jaguars take a gamble on Kevin Winston Jr., an athletic safety out of Penn State. Winston boasts an exceptional athletic profile at 6’2” with a 4.45 second 40 yard dash offering ideal range and physicality. He is an outstanding tackler, missing just 2% of his tackles in 2023. His ability to play multiple roles in the secondary would make him an instant contributor, especially if Andre Cisco walks in free agency. However, Winston suffered a torn ACL last season, creating some durability concerns. If he can return to full strength, he has all the tools to be a long term starter for Jacksonville.

Winston’s ability to cover ground, read plays, and deliver bone-crushing hits makes him a true enforcer in the defensive backfield. He excels in run support, showing a willingness to step up and take on ball carriers head on. His instincts in coverage allow him to recognize route concepts quickly and make plays on the ball. Given the Jaguars’ ongoing search for consistency at the safety position, Winston has the potential to step in and solidify a role as a key playmaker.

Despite the injury concerns, Winston’s upside is undeniable. His ability to play deep safety, drop into the box, or cover tight ends and running backs gives the Jaguars a versatile chess piece on defense. If he can fully recover and return to his pre-injury form, Winston could develop into one of the steals of the draft.