The Jacksonville Jaguars have wrapped up the 2026 NFL draft, and while general manager James Gladstone might still make a veteran free-agent signing or two, the heavy lifting of roster building is done. Now, let's break down the defensive depth chart and see where the new talent fits in.
Gladstone made it a priority to bolster the defensive line, adding three fresh faces in the draft. Expect rookies like Williams and Durfee to battle it out with veterans Green and Striggow for rotational roles behind star ends Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker. Meanwhile, Regis provides a much-needed run-stuffing presence at defensive tackle, backing up DaVon Hamilton.
The linebacker corps is also getting a shakeup. With Devin Lloyd out of the picture, Gladstone has been high on the room's potential, and the draft reflected that confidence. It looks like the starting job alongside Foyesade Oluokun is Ventrell Miller's to lose, while rookie Hughes will likely make his mark on special teams early.
In the secondary, the top of the depth chart is locked in with Travis Hunter, Montaric Brown, Jourdan Lewis, and Jarrian Jones. Christian Braswell is the early favorite for that fifth cornerback spot, but he's not a lock just yet. If the Jaguars decide to keep six corners on the 53-man roster, that final spot is wide open for the taking.
As for the safety position, the first five names on the list look set to form the unit for the 2026 season, giving the defense a solid foundation heading into training camp.
