Jacksonville Jaguars: 2016 7-round NFL mock draft
By John Buhler
Jacksonville seems to have found its next star at quarterback in former first round pick of the 2014 NFL Draft in Bortles. He grew a ton in his second year leading the Jaguars, emerging as one of the best up-and-coming quarterbacks in the league. However, Bortles will need adequate protection up front to have a successful NFL career in North Florida.
One player that the Jaguars should look to acquire to bolster their offensive line is Norte Dame center Nick Martin, who should be available for Jacksonville at No. 69. Martin has tremendous NFL pedigree as his older brother Zack is a Pro Bowl guard for the Dallas Cowboys on one of the best offensive lines in the NFL.
Martin has received comparisons to new Atlanta Falcons center Alex Mack as that type of high-end interior offensive lineman. Realistically, Martin will be able to play all three interior line positions, so that versatility will help him get ample playing time early in the NFL.
Speed may not be Martin’s biggest strength, but pedigree, leverage, and starring on great Notre Dame teams may make him a no-brainer for the Jaguars to address their need at center in the top part of the third round in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Next: Round 4