The Jacksonville Jaguars have had a knack for drafting Florida Gators and their choices to select C.J. Henderson, Jawaan Taylor, Taven Bryan, Dante Fowler Jr., and Derrick Harvey proves it. Florida held its Pro Day on Monday, and Jacksonville was one of 28 NFL teams in attendance.
Specifically, two Jags coaching assistants were spotted on the field conducting drills in running backs coach Bernie Parmalee and defensive line coach Brentson Buckner.
Some Gators that the Jaguars could potentially select in the draft next month that make sense are running back Dameon Pierce, edge rushers Zachary Carter, and Jeremiah Moon.
Pierce doesn’t have as much wear and tear on his body compared to other draft prospects because the Gators hardly used him the last two seasons, even though he was Pro Football Focus’ highest-graded rusher in 2021. He’s projected to be taken anywhere between the third and fifth rounds and finished 2021 with 100 carries 574 and 13 touchdonwns.
Jacksonville did select a running back last year but could still afford to take another one since both of their top options, James Robinson and Travis Etienne, are returning from season-ending injuries. Pierce is a three-down back that could help the Jaguars.
Carter could also hear his name called during the fourth and fifth rounds. Jacksonville will likely address its need for an edge rusher with the first overall pick when the Jaguars are expected to select Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson. But if they don’t take Hutchinson, Carter is one to watch for Jaguars fans along with Moon, who is viewed as a late Day 3 pick at the earliest.