With the 2020 NFL Draft rapidly approaching, it is time for the Jacksonville Jaguars to address glaring holes on the backend of their defense. The trading of cornerback A.J. Bouye to the Denver Broncos last month solidified the need for the Jags to draft a cornerback in the first couple of rounds. However, the inability to agree to terms with free agent cornerback Darqueze Dennard, has made it crucial for the team to draft yet another cornerback later in the draft as well.
This year’s draft certainly is top-heavy at the position, but there is definitely potential in later rounds. A pair of names the Jaguars should consider on day three of the draft are Lamar Jackson and Harrison Hand.
Jacksonville Jaguars 2020 NFL Draft Day Three Targets
Lamar Jackson 6’ 2”, 208 lbs.
After a lackluster junior season for the Cornhuskers, Lamar Jackson took time to re-evaluate his priorities. In his first three seasons he bounced between cornerback and safety. But 2019 was a breakthrough season for the senior from Elk Grove, CA.
Focusing on his technique and utilizing his athleticism, he earned second-team All-Big Ten honors. Jackson was able to capitalize on his rare combination of size and length. That combination is a benefit during jump ball situations in the red zone and makes him a capable tackler against the run. Jackson is physical and tough and those are attributes NFL coaches yearn for in cornerbacks.
At the next level he will need to hit the weight room hard. Building his strength is imperative if he wants to compete against NFL receivers at the line of scrimmage. With his frame, his speed also needs developing from a coaching staff, but he has the raw potential to be a quality defensive back in the NFL. Look for him to excel more in zone coverages early on in his career.
Harrison Hand 5’ 11”, 197 lbs.
At first glance, the physical appearance of Harrison Hand is not staggering. However, after looking closer at his 76 3/8 inch wingspan and 31 6/8 inch arms, he stands out among his peers. NFL scouts talk about a player having length, and that is what Hand has. Despite these measurables, Hand is still considered to be a project and he is slated as a late-round selection.
Hand began his career at Baylor and he performed admirably as a true freshmen earning honorable mention All-Big 12 honors. As a sophomore he battled through injuries which limited his growth and experience on the field.
Prior to his junior year, Hand transferred to Temple for family reasons and was immediately eligible to play. During this change of scenery, something clicked for Hand. In 2019, he tallied 59 tackles, three interceptions, and five pass breakups. Those are impressive statistics in the pass happy American Conference.
At the next level, Hand will need to prove that he is coachable. He will need to improve at the point of attack and utilize his physical gifts. Hand will also need to increase his flexibility and balance to compete against elite receivers. He also needs to become more aggressive in run support. Hand is a project that can contribute immediately on special teams and later become an asset in zone coverages.
Last Word
The Jacksonville Jaguars have stockpiled draft picks for the 2020 NFL Draft. With holes at outside cornerback, they will certainly look to bring in talent at the position. Look for the Jaguars to make moves on day three and fill the roster with the likes of Hand and Jackson.
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