The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event, and the Jacksonville Jaguars are once again in a prime position to add a game-changing talent to their roster. With a high draft pick in the first round and another selection in the second, the Jaguars have an excellent opportunity to fill key gaps and build a team capable of contending in the AFC.
This mock draft will explore how Jacksonville might use its top pick and second-round selection to bolster its squad for the future.
Jacksonville Jaguars’ Draft Position and Needs
Recap of the 2024 Season
The Jaguars have had an up-and-down trajectory in recent years. After showing flashes of promise in previous seasons, the team struggled in 2024 due to inconsistent quarterback play, offensive line issues, and a defense that failed to generate enough turnovers. Injuries to key players, including franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence, only made matters worse.
As a result, Jacksonville finds itself in possession of a top-five pick in the 2025 draft. With this selection, the team has a golden opportunity to secure an elite prospect who can immediately impact the roster.
Key Areas of Need
Several positions stand out as areas where Jacksonville needs reinforcements:
- Offensive Line – Protecting Trevor Lawrence should be a top priority, especially after a season where he faced relentless pressure. A dominant left tackle or interior lineman could help solidify the line.
- Wide Receiver – The Jaguars need a true No. 1 receiver to give Lawrence a dependable target. While Calvin Ridley and Christian Kirk have provided solid production, neither has emerged as a consistent elite option.
- Edge Rusher – Jacksonville needs more firepower on defense, particularly in the pass rush. Adding a top-tier edge rusher could take pressure off Josh Allen and Travon Walker.
- Cornerback – The Jaguars’ secondary has been inconsistent, and upgrading the cornerback position would help improve coverage against elite AFC quarterbacks.
With these needs in mind, let’s examine how Jacksonville could use its two premium draft picks.
First-Round Pick: OT Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State
Why Fashanu is the Pick
With their top-five pick, the Jaguars select Olumuyiwa Fashanu, the dominant offensive tackle from Penn State. At 6’6” and 320 pounds, Fashanu is an elite prospect who brings size, power, and technique to Jacksonville’s offensive line.
Fashanu has been one of the most consistent pass protectors in college football, excelling in both pass-blocking and run-blocking. His athleticism and ability to handle elite edge rushers make him a perfect fit to anchor the left side of the Jaguars’ offensive line.
How He Fits in Jacksonville
- Protecting Trevor Lawrence – The Jaguars must ensure that their franchise quarterback stays healthy and has time to make plays. Fashanu can be an instant starter at left tackle, allowing Walker Little to shift to the right side or provide depth.
- Improving the Run Game – Jacksonville struggled to generate a consistent ground attack in 2024. Fashanu’s ability to open lanes will help running back Travis Etienne find more space.
- Elite Potential – Fashanu has all the tools to develop into an All-Pro left tackle, giving Jacksonville stability on the offensive line for years to come.
By securing Fashanu, the Jaguars make a commitment to Trevor Lawrence’s longevity and the overall success of their offense.
Second-Round Pick: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State
Why Egbuka is the Pick
In the second round, the Jaguars address their need for a playmaking wide receiver by selecting Emeka Egbuka from Ohio State. A dynamic playmaker, Egbuka possesses elite route-running ability, strong hands, and the versatility to play both outside and in the slot.
At 6’1” and 205 pounds, Egbuka has a combination of size and speed that makes him a nightmare for defenders. He was a standout performer for the Buckeyes, consistently making tough catches and producing big plays in key moments.
How He Fits in Jacksonville
- Complementing the Receiving Corps – With Ridley and Kirk already in place, Egbuka would add another dimension to Jacksonville’s passing attack. His ability to separate from defenders and make contested catches gives Lawrence a new weapon.
- Big-Play Potential – The Jaguars need a receiver who can stretch the field. Egbuka’s speed and route-running ability make him a deep threat, forcing defenses to respect the vertical passing game.
- Versatility – Egbuka can line up in multiple positions, giving the Jaguars the flexibility to create mismatches against opposing defenses.
Pairing Egbuka with Lawrence could provide Jacksonville with a dangerous passing attack for years to come.
How These Picks Impact the Jaguars’ Future
With the selections of Fashanu and Egbuka, Jacksonville makes significant strides toward building a more complete team. Here’s how these moves will shape the future:
- Stronger Protection for Lawrence – With Fashanu anchoring the offensive line, Jacksonville reduces the risk of Lawrence taking unnecessary hits. A strong offensive line leads to better quarterback play and fewer turnovers.
- More Explosive Offense – Egbuka’s addition gives the Jaguars a true No. 1 receiver prospect, helping Lawrence take his game to the next level. A well-rounded receiving corps will make Jacksonville’s offense far more dangerous.
- Building for the Long Term – Drafting elite talents in back-to-back rounds ensures that Jacksonville has cornerstone players at key positions. Fashanu could be the team’s franchise left tackle, while Egbuka has the potential to develop into a Pro Bowl receiver.
Other Potential Draft Targets
If the Jaguars decide to go in a different direction, they have plenty of other talented prospects to consider. Here are some alternative picks they might explore:
-
First Round Alternatives
- Jared Verse (EDGE, Florida State) – A dominant pass-rusher who could bolster Jacksonville’s defensive front.
- Kool-Aid McKinstry (CB, Alabama) – A shutdown corner who would immediately upgrade the secondary.
- Brock Bowers (TE, Georgia) – A dynamic tight end who would give Lawrence a top-tier red-zone target.
-
Second Round Alternatives
- Kris Jenkins (DT, Michigan) – A powerful interior defender who could improve Jacksonville’s run defense.
- Troy Franklin (WR, Oregon) – A speedy deep threat who would add another playmaker to the receiving group.
- Zion Nelson (OT, Miami) – Another offensive line prospect who could provide depth and competition.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 NFL Draft represents a pivotal moment for the Jacksonville Jaguars. With their first two selections, they can significantly improve the roster and position themselves as legitimate contenders in the AFC.
By drafting Olumuyiwa Fashanu in the first round, Jacksonville strengthens its offensive line and ensures better protection for Trevor Lawrence. Meanwhile, selecting Emeka Egbuka in the second round gives the team a dynamic receiver who can elevate the passing game.
With these moves, the Jaguars set the foundation for sustained success, giving them the tools to compete at the highest level in the years ahead. As the draft approaches, Jacksonville’s fanbase will be eager to see how the front office executes its strategy—and whether these key additions can lead the team back to playoff contention.
