2008 NFL Draft Analysis : the Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars Load Up Their Defense

The Jacksonville Jaguars used the draft to improve their defense. The Jaguars replaced their defensive coordinator opening with Gregg Williams, one of the best coaches available. The Jaguars then used the 2008 NFL draft to give Williams some more tools. When the Jaguars had completed their draft day trades they ended up with five draft picks.

In the first round the Jaguars moved up to number eight and picked Derrick Harvey, the 6'5 252lb defensive end out of the University of Florida. NFL.com states "Harvey is a natural pass rusher and his best football may be ahead of him considering he came out as a junior." The former Gator should be able to make an impact right away. Harvey was impressive in the pre-draft combine workouts.

In the second round Jacksonville selected Quentin Groves, a 6'3 250lb defensive end out of Auburn. Quentin might be a little undersized for this position. However, he possesses great quickness and could play linebacker in the NFL. Pete Fiutak of Fox Sports states "If used right, he's going to be a devastating pro with tremendous speed to be a perfect 3-4 outside linebacker/defensive end."

In the fifth round the Jaguars selected Thomas Williams, a 6'1 238lb outside linebacker from USC. NFL.com thinks Williams is "a smart guy who's going to be a solid special teams player at this level and bring effort, intensity and passion to that phase of the game." He will also add depth to the Jaguars line backing group.

Also in the fifth round Jacksonville drafted cornerback Trae Williams out of South Florida. Williams is 5'9 193lbs. NFL.com thinks Trae "gives the Jaguars a young corner to develop under stalwart veteran Rashean Mathis." Fox sports calls Williams "he's a good, sound defender who'll be good enough to stick around the league for a long time if he's in the right system."