2026 NFL Draft: Why the Jaguars are set up perfectly after Round 1

TL;DR

The Jacksonville Jaguars did not make a Round 1 selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, marking a franchise first. They are set up with 11 picks in Rounds 2-7, including four in the second and third rounds.

Key points

Jaguars did not make a Round 1 selection in 2026 NFL Draft
They have 11 picks in Rounds 2-7, including four in Rounds 2-3
Top available prospects include Jermod McCoy and Denzel Boston

Jacksonville JaguarsHouston Texans

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - APRIL 15: General manager James Gladstone of the Jacksonville Jaguars speaks with the media at the Miller Electric Center on April 15, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Logan Bowles/Getty Images) | Getty Images The first 32 picks of the 2026 NFL Draft has come and gone, and for the first time in franchise history, the Jacksonville Jaguars did not make a Round 1 selection. General manager James Gladstone and the front office opted not to trade back into Round 1, preferring to hold onto their 11 “at-bats” in Rounds 2-7. Four of those 11 selections are scheduled for Rounds 2-3: Nos. 56, 81, 88, and 100. Based on SB Nation’s best available prospects, Jacksonville is especially well-positioned for Friday night’s second round. There was an offensive focus during Thursday night’s first round. 10 offensive linemen went off the board, as well as six pass-catchers, two quarterbacks, and two running backs. Despite pre-draft chatter of a run on pass rushers, just nine defensive linemen were taken. The top three players available by SB Nation’s big board are Tennessee CB Jermod McCoy, Washington WR Denzel Boston, and Clemson CB Avieon Terrell. After that, there are a handful of intriguing DL options.

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Q&A

Why didn't the Jaguars make a Round 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Jaguars opted not to trade back into Round 1, choosing to retain their 11 picks for Rounds 2-7 instead.

What are the Jaguars' key picks in the upcoming rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Jaguars have four key selections in Rounds 2-3: Nos. 56, 81, 88, and 100.

Who are the top available prospects for the Jaguars in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The top available prospects include CB Jermod McCoy, WR Denzel Boston, and CB Avieon Terrell, among others.

2026 NFL Draft: Why the Jaguars are set up perfectly after Round 1

TL;DR

Key points

Q&A

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