3 things in Round 1 of NFL draft that could impact Jaguars in Round 2

The Jacksonville Jaguars are without a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL draft. GM James Gladstone isn't scheduled to make his first selection until 56th overall.

That said, while the Jaguars likely won't be picking on Thursday, there are still a few Jaguars-specific items to keep our eyes on as Round 1 unfolds.

Let's dive in.

How many defensive tackles are taken?

Defensive tackle is a top need for the Jaguars. Depth, competition, and more pass-rush juice are all needed. In many final mock drafts, there aren't any -- or maybe just one -- defensive tackles being taken.

That is good news for the Jaguars. The fewer defensive tackle selections made in Round 1 could mean more quality options available for Jacksonville on Day 2.

How many offensive linemen are taken in Round 1?

The Jaguars will probably add to their offensive line unit in the draft, but most likely not at pick 56. So why should we monitor how many linemen are selected in Round 1?

If numerous other teams are prioritizing the trenches and picking offensive linemen, that then pushes down prospects at other position groups, perhaps like defensive end or defensive tackle -- two more pressing needs that the Jaguars have.

A run on offensive linemen in Round 1 won't guarantee that the Jaguars get a steal in Round 2 at defensive end, defensive tackle, or linebacker, but it doesn't hurt either. More picks made in Round 1 at positions that aren't a priority for the Jaguars is a good thing.

Does the depth of the draft class hold up?

Lance Zierlein of NFL.com ranked each position group in this year's class from strongest to weakest. Among the top five strongest position groups were defensive end, linebacker, wide receiver, and cornerback -- all positions we could see the Jaguars add to on Day 2.