The draft is nearly upon us. In 9 days the 2019 NFL Draft will commence. The Jaguars hold the seventh overall selection, and there's no consensus on who Tom Coughlin, Dave Caldwell, and company should add to the roster with that crucial pick. The first round hasn't treated the Jaguars well over the last decade. They've missed on far more selections than they've hit on, but with a new year, comes a new opportunity. Many talented players will be available when the Jaguars are on the clock at seven. The Jaguars could elect to go with a tight end, adding either TJ Hockenson or Noah Fant to the offense. Either former Iowa tight end would give Nick Foles a legit seam stretcher — the type of weapon he's had success with in the past — at the position. Jacksonville could also look to upgrade their pass rush with a talented EDGE like Montez Sweat, whose rare combination of production, size, and athleticism would make him an ideal fit to be a rotational pass rusher in year one. There are so many different ways this thing could potentially play out. But if the Jaguars are determined to make sure that the same fate does not befall their offensive line that did in 2018, then adding a talented and versatile offensive lineman might be the best play at seven. Mock drafts from media outlets such as ESPN, CBS, and many more suggest that Jawaan Taylor, the athletic right tackle from Florida, would be the pick here. But there's a different offensive tackle from the SEC that would be the safer, more logical pick at seven.
Jonah Williams was a three-year starter at Alabama and handled both the right side and the left side of the offensive line at tackle. But for arms that are slightly shorter than what the NFL prefers with offensive tackle prospects, Williams would be a lock top-five selection. Over his last two seasons, Williams allowed only one sack. His dominance was on display as both a run blocker and pass protector. Against the best possible competition, Williams was an absolute stud. His competitive fire has been noted by many, including himself. Williams would give the Jaguars a tackle that could compete to start on either side of the line and a player that has the traits and competitive toughness that projects him to be able to play each and every position on the offensive line. Not only is Williams a better tackle prospect than Jawaan Taylor, who had just one season of production worthy of a round-one grade, but he's also more versatile. In year one he would compete for, and likely win, a starting job either at right tackle or right guard. And he would also give the Jaguars a chess piece that could be moved around to fill in anywhere, should injuries arise. If the Jaguars decide that making sure their offensive line doesn't fall apart as it did in 2018 is their top priority on night one of the draft, then Jonah Williams is the prospect they should target. Of course, there will be quality offensive lineman that will be available in the second round, when the Jaguars pick at number 38 overall, but none with the polish or versatility of Jonah Williams. What do you think about this crop of offensive lineman? Let us know in the comments below. |
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