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Jaguars Target Defense in 2026 Mock Draft

The Jaguars have leaned heavily on defense in the 2026 mock draft, selecting Lee Hunter, Kaleb Elarms‑Orr, and R Mason Thomas. They also added running back Seth McGowan to shore up the backfield after Etienne's departure.

In the Pro Football Network mock draft, Jacksonville targeted defensive talent, picking Texas Tech interior lineman Lee Hunter at 57, TCU linebacker Kaleb Elarms‑Orr at 81, and Oklahoma edge R Mason Thomas at 88. These selections aim to deepen the pass‑rush and interior pressure on the Jaguars' defense.

GM James Gladstone noted the team’s flexibility, with 11 total picks and four in the top 100, allowing the board to dictate direction. The draft also includes running back Seth McGowan at 100 to fill the void left by free‑agency loss of Travis Etienne.