The Jaguars have struggled for many years on the offensive line, particularly in pass protection. It must be stated though that our offensive line has improved as a unit, but it never hurts to add much needed depth at the offensive tackle position. Luke Joeckel has not panned out as a first round draft pick and when injured the Jags are forced to use Sam Young, who is not a long term option at a position as important as left tackle. While most would agree that it is highly unlikely that the Jaguars draft an offensive lineman in the first round, it could be a wise decision, as they have struggled greatly to protect their young signal caller, Blake Bortles. Here are the best available options that would be considered good picks at fifth overall in the draft.
Ronnie Stanley - Notre Dame
Ronnie Stanley, an offensive tackle out of Notre Dame, is projected by most scouts to go in the top ten in this years NFL draft. Tunsil is expected to go in the first couple of picks making Stanley a realistic option if the Jaguars want to improve their offensive line in the first round. Stanley already has the body type, quickness and hands required to excel at left tackle at the next level, but in the opinion of some experts, is still raw in some skill sets. Like many young tackles, he sometimes plays too high and will need to keep his pad level lower to play against speed rushers in the NFL. This is somewhat reminiscent of Luke Joeckel and may be a risky draft pick. Free Agents: If the Jaguars do end up selecting Jalen Ramsey with the fifth overall pick (it seems more likely everyday), the Jaguars will need to build depth on the offensive line through free agency. Generation Jaguar has previously shed some insight on some potential guys that the Jaguars could add on the interior, players like Alex Mack from Cleveland. While this will most assuredly help improve our o-line, we will likely pursue some guys to help out on the outside where we have struggled on both sides. Jeremy Parnell, who was brought in last year to help our run game, has been a liability in pass protection and although Joeckel has improved, he is inconsistent and does not provide the kind of protection the Jags had hoped for when they drafted him with the second overall pick. Let’s take a look at some offensive tackles that will be available this year in free agency. Russell Okung (SEA)(LT) Cordy Glenn (BUF)(LT) Kelvin Beachum (PIT)(LT) Andre Smith (CIN)(RT)
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