6 bold predictions for the Jags’ 2020 rookie class

The Jags are going to need a lot of production out of their rookie class and will even need some of them to overachieve to make the playoffs.

With the 2020 NFL Draft being over for several weeks, we’ve had some time to soak in the rookie class the Jacksonville Jaguars were able to put together. After fixing things in terms of the salary cap, the team wisely made all 12 of their draft selections which could give them a solid nucleus if a majority of their picks pay off.

Needless to say, with Dave Caldwell’s and Doug Marrone’s jobs potentially being on the line, they will need their 2020 class to produce immediately just as their 2019 class did. That said, we came up with four bold predictions for the class (including some for their undrafted players, too) as they have the talent to be big contributors for the franchise if there is football this season.

(AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

C.J. Henderson acquires more picks than Jeff Okudah

Many scouts felt that C.J. Henderson was a better athlete than Jeff Okudah, though Okudah was clearly a better overall player. The comparison between the two will continue into their NFL careers as both were top-10 selections at the cornerback position.

When looking at the Jags’ schedule (ranked 22nd), it’s significantly easier than that Okudah will face as a rookie with the Detroit Lions (ranked fifth). It’s easy to see why as he’ll be tested early in his career facing receivers Davante Adams, Allen Robinson, and Adam Thielen twice in 2020 and will have to deal with the elite receivers from the NFC South in Julio Jones, Mike Evans, and Michael Thomas.

Meanwhile, Henderson could face up to two rookie quarterbacks in Tua Tagovailoa, Justin Herbert, and Joe Burrow. He’ll also have Josh Allen and K’Lavon Chaisson wreacking havoc in the trenches and presenting him ample opportunities to snag some picks during his rookie season.

When the 2020 season is over, I could see Henderson snagging approximately four picks while Okudah may be off by one or two due to the experienced quarterbacks and receivers he’ll face.