Jaguars make surprise pick at fifth overall in latest 2025 NFL mock draft
In Chris Trapasso's latest 2025 NFL mock draft for CBS Sports, the Jacksonville Jaguars make a surprise selection with the fifth overall pick, taking Boise State running back and Heisman Trophy finalist Ashton Jeanty.
"What if Jaguars new (and young) GM James Gladstone sees increased value in an uber-explosive running back on a rookie deal? This represents the ceiling for Jeanty and would be a big boost for Jacksonville's running back room," Trapasso wrote.
After rushing for 1,344 yards at 6.2 yards per attempt in 2023, Jeanty put together a monster season in 2024. This included him averaging just shy of 7.0 yards per rush and totaling 2,595 rushing yards with 29 touchdowns, per PFF.
Basically, pick any category--yards, yards per rush, missed tackles forced, rushes of 10-plus yards--and Jeanty wasn't only first among all running backs in college football, but he was first by a good margin.
Coming into this year's draft, the Jaguars do need to add to the running back position. For one, they only have three running backs on the roster currently, not to mention that Travis Etienne is in the final year of his rookie deal.
The running game under Liam Coen is also going to play an important role in getting this Jaguars' offense as a whole back on track. On Wednesday, when Coen mentioned providing Trevor Lawrence with "some balance around him," the rushing attack will be crucial in providing that.
A strong running game keeps the offense ahead of the sticks and out of predictable passing situations, which in turn, opens up opportunities in the passing game for Lawrence.
However, with that said, and as good as Jeanty is, I don't know that this is the pick at No. 5 overall. Before adding any skill position players, a team should make sure it is stout in the trenches, and on both the offensive and defensive lines, the Jaguars have their unknowns currently.
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