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2007 Jacksonville Jaguars NFL Draft Predictions

Get ready for the season with our 2008 Jacksonville Jags Football Predictions & Preview!

The Jacksonville Jaguars failed to reach the playoffs despite having a team very capable of making the postseason. Their first step to returning to the playoffs will be with the 2007 NFL Draft. It looks like the Jaguars will be turning over the helm to David Garrard at quarterback, but that doesn't mean he is the long-term answer.

Owner Wayne Weaver may not like the idea of spending a first-day pick on a quarterback, but the idea of Ohio State Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith could entice him. Smith may have had a poor performance against Florida in the National Championship game, but a closer examination of videotape reveals that it was Ohio State's offensive line that was getting beat to the punch, not giving Smith enough time to find open receivers. He is a proven winner and Jim Tressel, Ohio State's coach, has no doubt that Smith will excel in the NFL.

The running back position is solid for this team, with Maurice Jones-Drew becoming a pleasant surprise out of last year's draft. The wide-receiver position is a major weakness and has to be addressed. Jimmy Smith abruptly retired last May, leaving Jacksonville without a No. 1 receiver. Reggie Williams and Matt Jones are playmakers, but can't get it done on a consistent basis. Jones doesn't like going over the middle and has shied away from big hits that go along with that responsibility. A receiver is a must in the 2007 NFL Draft that can go over the middle and help out Garrard at quarterback.

The Jaguars' defensive line is one of the best in the league. Their linebackers need to improve to compliment this line and become a force similar to the Ravens each Sunday. They will likely draft a couple linebackers to try and make this one of the most feared defenses in the league. The Jaguars will be looking to improve on the offensive line as well. The unit did not have a Pro Bowler last season. Chris Naeole will be 32 next season and the Jaguars will be looking to the draft for depth at the right guard. Help on the offensive line will make a big difference in helping the offense succeed.

It is clear cut that Jacksonville has to focus nearly all of their attention on improving their offense. They have always been one of the best defensive teams in the league, so an offensive unit that can produce consistently would make this a very dangerous team. The Jaguars will be looking for a playmaker at the wide-out position or maybe even Troy Smith at quarterback, but look for those two positions to get taken care of early in the draft. If the Jaguars can find a gem like Jones-Drew at wideout, life will be much easier for David Garrard calling the plays.

Updated April 27th, 2007