As the Jacksonville Jaguars approach the 2026 NFL Draft without an initial round selection and a depleted roster from free agency, their focus shifts to the second day to bolster the defensive tackle position. This report delves into potential candidates who could fill this crucial gap, examining their collegiate performance, physical attributes, and how they might integrate into the team's strategy.
Detailed Scouting Report: Defensive Tackle Prospects for the Jaguars
On Monday, April 13, 2026, the Jaguars' scouting team, led by figures such as James Gladstone, is meticulously evaluating talent for the upcoming NFL Draft. Their primary need is a defensive tackle who can generate interior pressure, a commodity found lacking after recent team adjustments.
Caleb Banks, Florida
Caleb Banks from Florida stands out as a high-potential prospect, often considered among the best in his class when fully healthy. Despite his exceptional athleticism, evidenced by a 9.84 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) at the NFL Combine achieved even with a foot injury, recurring foot issues pose a significant concern regarding his long-term availability. His 11.2% Pass-Rush Win % in 2024 (17th nationally) and 12.4% Pressure % (5th nationally) highlight his disruptive capability. If his injury concerns lead to a slide in the draft, Gladstone might see an opportunity to acquire a true game-wrecker.
Christen Miller, Georgia
Georgia's Christen Miller follows a strong lineage of defensive linemen from his university. While he is expected to be a high pick, potentially out of the Jaguars' reach at pick 56, his impressive performance on a per-snap basis might tempt Gladstone to trade up. Despite a heavy rotation limiting his snap count to 31.5 per game in 2025, Miller's 11.3% Pass-Rush Win % (21st among top-169 DTs) and 7.8% Pressure % demonstrate his effectiveness, suggesting he could thrive with more playing time.
Lee Hunter, Texas Tech
Lee Hunter from Texas Tech is a formidable run-defender, boasting an impressive 11.9% Run-Stop % (5th nationally) over his 52-game collegiate career, during which he accumulated 32 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. However, his limited explosiveness and a low 4.07 RAS, coupled with an unimpressive 21.5-inch vertical leap (2nd percentile), suggest he might not be the interior pass-rusher the Jaguars desperately need. At 24 years old by Week 1, his athletic upside is also a point of concern.
Gracen Halton, Oklahoma
Oklahoma's Gracen Halton presents a more balanced profile. Despite being part of a rotation, he consistently pressured offensive lines, tallying 69 pressures, 13.0 TFLs, and 8.5 sacks over two seasons. His 10.4% Pass-Rush Win % ranks 28th, but his 11.6% Pressure % leads the 2026 Draft Class and ranks 6th nationally. An outstanding RAS of 8.44, including 99th percentile vertical and 98th percentile 40-yard dash, makes him an appealing prospect who also excels in run defense with a 10.2% Run-Stop % (Top-20 nationally).
Domonique Orange, Iowa State
Domonique Orange Jr., known as 'Big Citrus,' from Iowa State, might not fit the Jaguars' specific need for a pass-rushing defensive tackle due to his lower pass-rush statistics (6.9% Pass-Rush Win %, 4.1% Pressure %). Nevertheless, his formidable size and power make him a significant disruptor in the A-Gap, often requiring double teams. His presence on Dane Brugler's 'Freaks List' twice underscores his unique physical capabilities, making him a valuable asset for run defense, though perhaps not the ideal fit for Jacksonville's current pass-rush focus.
This year's draft presents a complex challenge for the Jaguars. The decision to prioritize a defensive tackle requires a careful balance between raw talent, injury history, and specific tactical fit. While Banks offers elite potential with high risk, Halton provides a well-rounded and athletic option. Miller represents a proven commodity in a strong program, and Hunter is a dominant run-stopper who may not align with the team's immediate pass-rush needs. Orange, though a powerful force, is also more suited for run defense. The choices made on day two will be pivotal in shaping the Jaguars' defense for the coming seasons, demanding foresight and strategic acumen from their scouting department.
