SPORTS

Jaguars Maintain Draft Position Amid Trade Speculation Today

PUBLISHED Apr 23, 2026, 5:39 PM ET

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Jacksonville, Fla. — The Jacksonville Jaguars navigated heavy draft-day speculation this week as reports linked them to a possible trade-up into the first round and named wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. as potential trade bait. The first round concluded Thursday without the Jaguars making a selection because they previously traded that pick in last year’s Travis Hunter deal. On Thursday night the Cleveland Browns used the final pick obtained in the Hunter trade to select Texas A&M receiver KC Concepcion at No. 24, while the Jaguars retained pick No. 56 for Day 2. General manager James Gladstone confirmed conversations occurred but said no trade materialized; evaluators noted the Seahawks’ selection of Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price at No. 32.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Pre-draft: Rumors circulate linking Jaguars to a potential trade-up and Brian Thomas Jr. as bait.
Early April: GM James Gladstone publicly downplays moving Brian Thomas Jr. and the team’s first-round plans.
Draft Day (Thursday): First round concludes; Seahawks select Jadarian Price at No. 32 and Jaguars hold no first-round pick.
Draft Night: Browns use final pick acquired in Hunter trade to select KC Concepcion at No. 24.
Post-Round 1: Jaguars prepare to make selection at No. 56 on Day 2; teams reassess trade values and roster needs.

News Intelligence

If you're a Jaguars fan, this draft strategy could shape the team's future. Keep an eye on pick No. 56 on Day
It's a chance to add fresh talent. And remember, Brian Thomas Jr. is still on the roster.

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Who Benefited

The Jacksonville Jaguars benefited by preserving draft assets and maintaining control over roster decisions after not trading up; the team avoided committing Brian Thomas Jr. as trade bait and retained pick No. 56 for Day 2.

Who Impacted

Travis Hunter suffered limited immediate return value after an injury-limited rookie season (seven games), and the Cleveland Browns' haul from the Hunter trade produced mixed results that reduced perceived trade value.

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