Jacksonville’s bold strategy: Why Jaguars could surprise everyone in NFL draft

As the NFL Draft approaches, all eyes are on the top picks but don't sleep on the Jacksonville Jaguars. With a new leadership duo in general manager James Gladstone and head coach Liam Coen, the Jaguars are shaking things up. They aren’t just turning the page, they’re rewriting the playbook. A team with fresh leadership and an intriguing roster, Jacksonville is emerging as this year's wild card. If you expect a standard pick at their spot, think again.


While many expect the Jacksonville Jaguars to address their defensive line and make a safe, reliable pick like Michigan’s Mason Graham in the NFL Draft, there’s a chance they’ll take a far more daring approach. Instead of opting for a predictable, conventional selection, the Jaguars could be looking to add a game-changing playmaker who will immediately impact their offense and create waves in the NFL Draft.
Enter Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. Early reports indicate that McMillan has caught the attention of Jacksonville’s front office, and it’s easy to understand why. Head coach Liam Coen, who previously worked alongside Mike Evans in Tampa Bay, is reportedly high on McMillan, seeing striking similarities between the two. McMillan’s ideal combination of size, body control, and the ability to dominate contested catches could make him a key asset in Jacksonville’s NFL Draft strategy. Adding a true boundary threat would give quarterback Trevor Lawrence a dynamic weapon, significantly boosting their offensive attack and speeding up Lawrence’s development.

Although some critics have raised concerns about McMillan’s consistency, his on-field play speaks volumes. When fully engaged, McMillan has been described as an “absolute baller” — the kind of spark that Coen may want to ignite regularly. With Evan Engram’s departure, the need for a versatile, big-bodied target becomes even more pressing for the Jaguars in the NFL Draft.
This potential selection isn’t about just filling a gap; it’s about taking a bold step forward. The Jaguars might be positioning themselves for a high-risk, high-reward draft strategy, choosing to bet on raw potential over more conventional picks. With Trevor Lawrence entering a crucial season, a move like this would signal that Coen and general manager James Gladstone are determined to make an immediate impact in the NFL Draft.
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So, as the NFL Draft unfolds, don’t be surprised if Jacksonville delivers the first real shock. Under Coen’s leadership, the Jaguars aren’t playing it safe, they’re playing to win.