Jaguars set up Top 30 visit with big-name draft prospect
The Jacksonville Jaguars currently hold the 24th overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft. And they probably know they're unlikely to land one of the top defensive prospects available this year that would immediately change how their defense is perceived. But if there's one prospect that might entice them enough to put together a "trade […]
The Jacksonville Jaguars currently hold the 24th overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft. And they probably know they're unlikely to land one of the top defensive prospects available this year that would immediately change how their defense is perceived.
But if there's one prospect that might entice them enough to put together a "trade up" bid, it might be one of their most recently reported Top 30 visits: Edge rusher Nolan Smith.
Per NFL insider Aaron Wilson, the Jaguars have a visit scheduled with the Georgia Bulldogs prospect that many consider to be a Top 15 talent in this year's class.
The Jaguars finished fourth in pressure rate last year but clearly need to get better after losing Arden Key (not to mention, Dawuane Smoot remains a free agent).
If Smith were to fall to the Jaguars, it could be the best-case scenario imaginable as the team could pair him with Travon Walker and Josh Allen.
Scouting Report
Here's some of what Jaguars fans can expect from Nolan Smith if he ends up wearing the teal and gold per A to Z Sports draft analyst Tyler Browning:
"Very explosive off the snap. Puts pressure on the offensive tackle to get up in the pass protection arch on a consistent basis.
Incredible lateral mobility. Can jump over a gap in the blink of an eye. Has no problem getting sideline to sideline. Fantastic at crossing the face of the offensive linemen and getting into the backfield. Has exceptional change of direction ability.
Very bendy player, has insane lateral mobility. Was once the nation's number 1 recruit in high school.
When it's all said and done, the Jaguars are very likely to address their defensive needs in the first round. That's where the team needs the most help and it's likely to match with the best player available.
But if it's Nolan Smith they want, they better start drawing up a potential trade-up package.
