Sports Illustrated’s John Shipley believes that the Jaguars could use the 2026 NFL Draft to “boost” their defensive line.

15 March 2026

The front office could invest heavily in the defensive line, which currently includes three projected starters who have just one year remaining on their contracts. Former No. 1 overall pick, EDGE Travon Walker, is among them and is coming off a four-sack season, matching his 2022 rookie season total. He recorded 10 in 2024 and 11 in 2023. The team could draft an EDGE to compete with Walker this summer, while general manager James Gladstone mulls an extension offer. The Jaguars’ projected starting DTs are Arik Armstead, 32, and DaVon Hamilton, 29. Both players are scheduled to enter free agency next offseason. Given their age, it is reasonable to assume the Jaguars draft at least one interior defender in April. The team is returning every member of their offensive line this year. Shipley believes the Jaguars will use “at least one pick on a developmental offensive lineman.”