2018 NFL Draft: 3 best fits with the Jacksonville Jaguars

As the 2018 NFL Draft gets nearer, mocks are fun but what if we predicted the players we think would fit best on teams — both from a philosophical and schematic standpoint? Who would those players be for the Jacksonville Jaguars?

ESPN recently listed out three players he thinks are the best “fits” for the Jaguars. He’s careful to note this isn’t a mock draft, but rather who would best fill a need and/or fit what each team likes to do.

So, without further ado, here are those three players.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Day 1: Boise State MLB Leighton Vander Esch

Day 2: Notre Dame WR Equanimeous St. Brown

Day 3: NC State OT Will Richardson

The retirement of Paul Posluszny creates a void at middle linebacker and Vander Esch is the second-ranked inside linebacker on our board. He has a rare blend of size and range. With Myles Jack and Telvin Smith flanking him on the outside, the Jaguars would have an uber-talented linebacker corps. St. Brown has the skill set to be a far more productive pro than college player considering Notre Dame’s erratic quarterback play. The Jaguars would do well to add a receiver with his kind of upside. Jacksonville should be looking to add depth at tackle. Richardson is a versatile lineman with the ability to provide depth at both tackle spots and guard. Plus, right tackle Jeremy Parnell turns 32 in July and Richardson is a potential replacement when Parnell’s play starts to drop off or his contract expires following the 2019 season.

I think Vander Esch and St. Brown would fit well — but spending first and second round draft capital on a linebacker and wide receiver, respectively, just wouldn’t make sense on this roster. There are bigger needs and they’ve downplayed the role of the receiver in this offense. Would having a 6’5” receiver and a taller, heaver Paul Posluszny help? Sure. But this team needs help on the right side of the offensive line, they need an edge rusher, they need... well... things before a linebacker and receiver.

As far as Richardson goes, this is where need and value might intersect. We need help at the right tackle position now that Jermey Parnell is (likely) in the last year of his contract.

What do you all think? How would you feel about these three players being among the Jaguars’ picks next week?