The Jacksonville Jaguars are entering the 2026 NFL Draft with a clear set of priorities as they look to strengthen key areas of the roster. After an up-and-down season, the focus has shifted toward improving both defensive pressure and offensive balance.
The team’s top needs center on defensive tackle, edge rusher and linebacker, reflecting a push to build a more disruptive front seven. While Jacksonville excelled against the run in 2025, its inability to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks exposed a major weakness.
Jacksonville Jaguars, Trevor Lawrence, NFL
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) reacts to a false start during the first quarter of an AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]
Jacksonville finished near the bottom of the league in sacks, highlighting the need for additional pass-rushing presence. Aside from limited production from the interior, much of the pressure burden fell on the edge, where the current group was forced to carry the load throughout the season.
The situation along the defensive line is further complicated by the status of veteran contributors, as the team evaluates long-term financial decisions. Addressing both immediate production and future stability will be essential as the Jaguars reshape their defensive identity.
ESPN’s NFL Analysis Identifies Jacksonville Jaguars’ 3 Major Needs Ahead of 2026 Draft
Jacksonville Jaguars, Trevor Lawrence
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) runs onto the field before the start of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. Bills lead 10-7 at the half over the Jaguars. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]
Jacksonville approaches the NFL Draft with three major needs that need to be addressed. This detailed more in an analysis by Michael DiRocco for ESPN.
Top three needs: DT, edge, LB. The Jaguars led the NFL in rush defense in 2025 but struggled rushing the passer (ranked 27th with 32 total sacks). Other than Arik Armstead (5.5 sacks), there was minimal pressure from the interior. That put the burden on edge rushers Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker, who combined for 11.5 sacks. Armstead is 32 with a $19.4 million cap figure, so there’s a chance the team moves on from him as a post-June 1 release.
At linebacker, the need for depth and speed remains a priority as the team looks to complement its front. Adding younger, more dynamic players could help improve versatility and overall defensive consistency.
On offense, the departure of a key running back has created a gap in the backfield, making the position another area to watch in the draft. As the franchise looks ahead, filling these needs will be crucial in building a more complete roster for the 2026 season.