REPORT: JAGUARS INTERESTED IN TRADING FOR BALTIMORE TIGHT END HAYDEN HURST

Hayden Hurst (Mark Goldman/Icon Sportswire)

Could the Jaguars acquire a new starting tight end via trade?

BY JORDAN DE LUGO

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According to Gene Frenette of the Florida Times-Union, the Jaguars are "exploring (a) pre-draft trade for Ravens' tight end Hayden Hurst."

But the Jaguars aren't the only suitor in play. The Patriots are also interested in Hust, according to Frenette.

The Jaguars have long needed an upgrade at the tight end position. They've tried their luck with free agents in Julius Thomas, and Geoff Swaim, but to no avail. In 2019, the Jaguars drafted Josh Oliver in the third round, but injuries put a damper on his rookie campaign.

What would the Jaguars need to give up to bring Hurst in? The answer to that question is unclear. It'd be a surprise to see them give up a first-round pick. Perhaps pick number 42? Or 73? 

Hurst hasn't put up big numbers to this point in his career, but that's not all his fault. The Ravens are deep at the tight end position and the emergence of Mark Andrews has lessened Hurst's opportunity to shine in Baltimore. According to Fernette, Hurst "wants (the) opportunity to catch more passes." He'd certainly get that in Jacksonville, where he would likely take over as the team's number one tight end.

Hayden Hurst played high school football at Bolles in Jacksonville. He played collegiately at South Carolina. Drafted in 2018, Hurst turns 27 before the start of the 2020 regular season. During his two years in Baltimore, Hurst hauled in 43/62 targets for 512 yards and three touchdowns. 

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