Looking ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft, the Jacksonville Jaguars are already a popular subject for speculation. While many mock drafts have them trading down to accumulate more picks, what if General Manager James Gladstone decides to be aggressive and move up the board instead?

With a war chest of 11 selections, Gladstone has the capital to maneuver. Using the Pro Football Focus mock draft simulator and the Rich Hill trade value chart to ensure fairness, let's explore a scenario where the Jaguars make a bold move on Day 2.

In this projection, Jacksonville targets a significant jump from pick No. 56. They strike a deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, sending picks 56, 88, 203, and 233 to Kansas City in exchange for the 40th overall selection. This strategic trade leaves the Jaguars with picks 40, 81, and 100 within the top 100, addressing key needs with premium talent.

With the newly acquired 40th pick, the Jaguars immediately bolster their defensive front. They select edge rusher Alex Young, a player generating first-round buzz after a breakout 2025 campaign. Young recorded 56 pressures and eight sacks last season, ranking 19th in pass rush win rate among defensive ends. His ability to disrupt the quarterback and hold his own against the run provides crucial depth and consistency behind stars Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen, a vital upgrade for any defense.

At pick 81, the focus shifts to offense. The Jaguars grab tight end Marcus Rousch, a perfect fit for Liam Coen's system. Rousch was a reliable target last season with 80 receptions, averaging 11.1 yards per catch. His proven ability as a blocker in the run game makes him an ideal, versatile weapon, addressing a position ESPN's Jordan Reid notes the team is "expected to target right away on Day 2."

Finally, with pick 100, Jacksonville fortifies the interior defensive line by selecting tackle Sam Benny. A seasoned player with over 1,200 career snaps, Benny is a force against the run. He logged 18 pressures last season and has consistently been a top-graded run defender from the interior, providing immediate stability and power in the trenches.

This aggressive, trade-up scenario demonstrates a clear philosophy: target specific, high-impact players to fill critical roles. By securing a dynamic edge rusher, a versatile tight end, and a stout interior defender, the Jaguars would address three major needs with quality prospects, setting a strong foundation for the 2026 season and beyond.