As the Jacksonville Jaguars gear up for the 2026 NFL Draft, they face a unique challenge: building without a first-round pick. This puts a premium on finding gems in the later rounds, a task where the Jags have had some notable success. While recent sixth-rounders like Parker Washington and Cam Little are building their legacies, let's look back at the three players who have already cemented their status as the franchise's best sixth-round selections, chosen for their production, longevity, and undeniable impact.
Kicking off our list is Deji Karim, the versatile weapon selected in 2010. While primarily a running back, Karim's true value came as a dynamic return specialist. He fielded 77 kickoffs for the Jaguars, boasting an impressive average of nearly 25 yards per return. His tenure may have been relatively short, but his ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game made him a valuable and productive late-round find.
Next up is safety Josh Evans, a 2013 sixth-round pick who defied expectations to become a mainstay in the Jaguars' secondary. Evans carved out a significant role over multiple seasons, transitioning from a rotational piece to a trusted starter. His reliability was proven on the stat sheet, where he amassed 201 total tackles and five pass deflections, providing steady play and proving that impact players can be found on draft's final day.
Topping our list is the ultimate fan favorite and one of the most compelling stories in recent Jaguars history: quarterback Gardner Minshew. Drafted in 2019, "Minshew Mania" took Jacksonville by storm after an injury thrust him into the starting role Week 1 of his rookie year. He delivered electrifying performances, showcasing moxie and talent that often seemed hampered more by circumstance than ability. Despite being controversially benched, his cult-hero status and the spark he provided make him the most impactful sixth-round pick in franchise history, a testament to finding a diamond in the rough.
