If you want to know how much the Jacksonville Jaguars wanted Leonard Fournette, all you needed to do was hear the conversation between the player and the team in the war room.
Fournette, who will immediately challenge for a starting role on offense, was the team’s top pick all along. Executive vice-president Tom Coughlin told the LSU star he was a bit nervous when Chicago and San Francisco made a trade in front of the team. But patience paid off as this franchise now has an elite running back to go along with the passing attack they could return to 2015 form.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have two picks this evening – One at 35, and the other at 68. There still many holes this team needs to fill. With the offensive line and pass rush at the top of the list. Drafting a player like Fournette allows head coach Doug Marrone to concentrate on roster needs. Ones that will prove to be starters as well as depth.
The early run on quarterbacks, where three trades were made to draft signal callers in the first 12 picks, opened the door for quality players to slide.
Based on who is available, it looks like Jacksonville will get a first-round talent the next time the team is on the clock. Here is a look at five players this team could consider with their two selections later today.
Forrest Lamp, Guard, Western Kentucky – The massive guard will help the Jaguars open holes for Fournette and the running game. Lamp’s ability to use a compact frame to move offensive linemen has made him the best at his position in this draft.
Demarcus Walker, Defensive End, FSU – If he slides to the back end of the second round, the Jacksonville Jaguars should consider moving up to grab him. At FSU, all he did was rush the passer, to the tune of 16.5 sacks last season. At 6-foot-4 and 280 pounds, he could also play inside as a three-technique.
Nate Peterman, Quarterback, Pittsburgh – Someone said the Jaguars should consider Deshone Kizer. I sure hope not. Peterman played in a pro-style offense at Pittsburgh and has a chance to be a solid starter in this league. He is a bit thin, but has a strong arm and is a local product from here in Jacksonville.
Kevin King, Cornerback, Washington – King, 6-foot-3, 192 pounds, finished his four-year career at Washington with 164 tackles. Hel also had six interceptions, as well as two forced fumbles. He was projected as a late first-round pick and adds depth to the Jaguars secondary. With the team uncertain about Aaron Colvin’s future, this is a solid pick.
Dion Dawkins, Guard, Temple – Dawkins could be the pick at No. 35 if Lamp is gone. Dawkins is a thick road grader at 6-foot-4 and 314. The Jags can plug him into either side of the line and play. There may be some talk he could eventually play center, meaning Brandon Linder moves back to his original spot.