Jacksonville Jaguars draft analysis: Justin Blackmon is perfect catch

Published Thursday, Apr 26, 2012 at 9:11 pm EDT
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Justin Blackmon is a member of the Jaguars and has the jersey to prove it. (AP Photo)

WR, Oklahoma State

How he fits: The Jaguars desperately need a playmaker to give quarterback Blaine Gabbert, last year's first-round pick, another weapon. Blackmon had more production by himself in 13 games last season, with 121 catches, 1,522 yards, 18 TDs for Oklahoma State, than eight Jaguars' receivers had in 16 games—121 catches, 1,359 yards, 7 TDs.

The Jaguars, who traded up two spots to land Blackmon, are counting on his biggest strength—breaking tackles to make yards after the catch—to translate to the next level. Questions remain about whether Blackmon can be a true No. 1 receiver, but it'll be a surprise if he's not substantially better as a rookie than any of the previous 19 receivers the Jaguars have drafted.

— Iyer: Jags plug massive hole with Blackmon

When he'll play: It'll be a shocker if Blackmon doesn't win a starting job immediately. Look for him to be paired with Laurent Robinson, the Jaguars' top free agent acquisition with a five-year, $32.5 million contract.

Blackmon is 6-1, 207 pounds, but plays bigger because of his ability to catch the football in tight coverage. His route-running skills could stand to improve, but with veteran receivers coach Jerry Sullivan as his tutor, the odds are good of that happening.

With two new receiving weapons for Gabbert, it should also keep defenses from putting eight men in the box to contain Pro Bowl running back Maurice Jones-Drew.


Round-overall: 2-38, 3-70, 4-101, 5-142, 6-176, 7-228


"He's a competitor. He attacks the ball. He's strong to the ball and strong with the ball. Receivers in college, it's an adjustment. You're coming to a level now where you actually have to know how to run a route. Sometimes in college, if you're big and strong, until the ball is in the air, they let you play. At this level, it's a little different dynamic."---Jaguars general manager Gene Smith


1. Defensive end. For the past four seasons, the Jaguars have been among the bottom quarter of the league in quarterback sacks. While re-signing Jeremy Mincey in the offseason was a boost, this team needs a quality pass-rusher if it hopes to become an elite defense. Among the early second-round possibilities that might be available are Andre Branch, Vinny Curry and Tyrone Crawford.

2. Cornerback. There's still a lot of uncertainty about who will start opposite Derek Cox. The Jaguars signed free agent Aaron Ross to compete with aging veteran Rashean Mathis, but there's still a concern about improving in man-to-man coverage. It's doubtful the Jaguars would take a character risk on Janoris Jenkins, but inviting prospects like Central Florida's Josh Robinson, Montana's Trumaine Johnson and Virginia Tech's Jayron Hosley are still on the board.

3. Defensive tackle. This didn't become a high priority until starter Terrance Knighton, entering the last year of his contract, injured his left eye in a nightclub incident and will be sidelined for three months. This is considered the deepest position in the draft, so the Jaguars might wait until the third or fourth round to pull the trigger.

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