One Persons Opinion on the Jags Draft

The Jaguars filled a need in the 1st round in a big way. Derrick Harvey is one of the best RDE in this draft and why the Jags vaulted 18 spots to get him. The other potential choice, Phillip Merling, who was still available at the 26th spot where the Jags moved up from, is too similar, however, to what the Jags already have in Paul Spicer and Reggie Hayward and why they felt the move was worth it. The Jaguars needed someone who could be a force coming around Peyton Manning's blind side. But, they gave up an awful lot to get him (picks #26, 71, 89, 125, 158) when they could have had their choice of two proven Pro Bowl players in either Jared Allen (picks #26, 143, 159) or Jason Taylor (picks #26 or 58) for less! However, youth was served here which was very important. The pressure is now on Harvey to take this team to the Division title, the Conference Championship game and become a future Pro Bowler. If he doesn't, considering what they gave up or could have had, this pick could be considered a bust. If he does, well, you know what that means.

What improved this draft class significantly was jumping up and getting Quentin Groves in the 2nd. This was a guy the Jags could have targeted in the 1st. Groves is a vicious tackler and has amazing quickness for someone 6'3" 260 pounds. Most importantly, he hates QBs. He will have ample opportunity to show off his distaste in new Defensive Coordinator Gregg Williams' blitz packages.

The good thing is, neither Groves or Harvey will be required to be everydown linemen early on. They will be able to learn the system and develop. But, when its a definite passing situation, having these two on the field at the sime time attacking from the rightside will wreak havoc and create all sorts of opportunities for the defense.

The two 5th round picks were for depth only. After giving away most of their draft picks, that was about all they could do. The curious thing is: Does drafting a CB, when they needed depth at Safety, signal the move of Brian Williams to SS?

Perhaps, the best value was in the 7th round. After losing LaBrandon Toefield to FA, we needed a back-up RB behind Fred Taylor and Maurice Drew. Chauncey Washington more than fits that role and was a steal. At 212 pounds and 4.4 speed, he hits the hole with authority and will be a needed work horse in the 4th Quarter when the Jags have a comfortable lead and are looking to run out the clock. Washington doesn't have a lot of wear and tear on his body either after sitting out for two years in USC head coach Pete Carroll's doghouse. If he proves he can hang onto the football, he has a shot at producing more than a back-up role in the future.

Overall, the Jags significantly addressed their need in a big way. The question will be, whether they were right. As Jaguars fans are all to well aware, drafting in the 1st round is not a guarantee. We'll find out soon enough as Training Camp is only two months away.