The Jacksonville Jaguars are considering seven NFL draft prospects for the 2026 draft, as highlighted by ESPN's Ben Solak. Notable among them is linebacker Jacob Rodriguez from Texas Tech, known for his strong run defense and ball production.
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ESPN's Ben Solak recently detailed how the Jacksonville Jaguars could "ace" the 2026 NFL draft, and in doing so, he also mentioned seven prospects that could be of interest to GM James Gladstone.
Let's take a closer look at these players and potential Day 2 fits for the Jaguars.
Rodriguez was one of PFF's highest-graded run defenders at the linebacker position. He also had good ball production in coverage, generating four interceptions and three pass breakups. Rodriguez forced seven fumbles as well.
Allen ranked among the best in run defense over both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, according to PFF's metrics. He's been a very sound tackler. In coverage, he allowed 10.6 yards per catch in 2025, with three pass breakups.
A former wide receiver, Randall would bring added pass-catching abilities to the backfield. As a ball carrier in 2025, Allen averaged 4.8 yards per catch with 10 rushing touchdowns.
Halton had had steady pass rush production, generating 29 pressures in 2024 and 30 pressures this past season with nine total sacks. Out of 169 eligible defensive tackles, Halton ranked 28th in PFF's pass-rush win rate metric. He also graded out quite well as a run defender.
A good athlete who produced 35 quarterback pressures in the last two seasons. Onyedim has made a greater impact against the run during his college career, but he has pass-rush upside with his athleticism.
The top prospects include linebacker Jacob Rodriguez from Texas Tech, among others mentioned by ESPN's Ben Solak.
Jacob Rodriguez is recognized for being one of the highest-graded run defenders, with four interceptions, three pass breakups, and seven forced fumbles.
Jacob Rodriguez plays linebacker and attended Texas Tech.
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Listed as a defensive back, most of Kilgore's snaps have come closer to the line of scrimmage, primarily from the nickel, but also as a box defender -- filling more of the traditional strong safety role. He's had ball production in his career, logging eight interceptions with 21 pass deflections.
Wheatley lined up all over the secondary. He was a sound tackler and stout run defender from the safety position. In coverage, he limited opponents to 5.1 yards per catch with one interception and one pass breakup.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Analyst highlights 7 Day 2 fits for Jaguars