Pre-Draft Needs: WR, DE, CB
Players Added
Round 1-Tyson Alualu/DT - Despite what many think, he had a first-round grade
from many teams. In fact, sources said that when coaches around the NFL got
involved in the scouting process in early February, Alualu's draft value rose
significantly. He'll start next to second-year DT Terrance Knighton as a rookie.
Round 3-D'Anthony Smith/DT - Smith is a physically strong player who should gain
a role as a top backup as a rookie.
Round 5-Larry Hart/DE - Hart is a small school player who needs to improve his
pass rush technique, according to some personnel evaluators. However, he has a
quick first step, and fits in as a situational pass rusher.
Round 5-Austen Lane/DE - Lane, another small school player really helped his
draft stock after a solid set of practices during Senior Bowl week. Jacksonville
posted an embarrassing 13 sacks on defense last season, so Lane could certainly
push for a roster spot as the team's third or fourth end.
Round 6-Deji Karim/RB - The small, but speedy back will compete for a change of
pace role in training camp.
Round 6-Scotty McGee/CB - The diminutive defensive back has a realistic chance
to make the team coming out of the preseason in a dime role.
Post-Draft Needs
Wide Receiver - Surprisingly, not one receiver was added in this draft. Mike Thomas is really a slot receiver, so where will the starter on the opposite side
of Mike Sims-Walker come from?
Defensive End - With the team going back to a 4-3 defensive scheme this season,
they must find quality pass rushers up front. Veteran DE Aaron Kampman is coming
off ACL surgery, and it remains to be seen if he'll be able to get back to where
he was two years ago. Derrick Harvey hasn't proven a thing in his two years of
play, so it's going to be a challenge for the coaches to find a pass rush this
season.
Cornerback - The nickel and dime positions on defense still need to be filled.