Jacksonville Jaguars: Three possible draft scenarios

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Nov 30, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs running back Todd Gurley (3) dives into the end zone for a touchdown over Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets cornerback D.J. White (28) and linebacker

Brandon Watts

(11) in the first half at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Scenario #3: Trade back and draft a running back

Like the cornerback group, the Jaguars’ running back corps isn’t necessarily stellar. Denard Robinson had somewhat of a breakout year while Toby Gerhart had and awful one. Storm Johnson saw some touches, but it’s unlikely that he becomes an every-down back.

The Jaguars could easily fix their running back issue, though, and it would be as easy as trading back and drafting Todd Gurley or Melvin Gordon.

This scenario would likely be accomplished the same way the aforementioned scenario would be. A team needing a quarterback would likely have to trade up, but it’s possible the Jaguars would be able to trade a little bit further back, gain more in the process and still pick up a top-tier back.

NFL.com’s Brian Baldinger called Gurley the most talented player in the draft, and it’s not hard to understand why.

Todd Gurley was one of the most polarizing players in college football last year. First he was unstoppable. Then he was more unstoppable. Then he got suspended. Then he got hurt. However, he has all of the tools to be an elite back at the next level.

His explosiveness and his ability to shake the first defender is remarkable, and he was always a threat to score. He reminds some scouts — including NFL.com –of Marshawn Lynch thanks to his hard-nosed running style. He has great vision, too, which is something that is instrumental in a back’s transition to the pro game. Just ask Trent Richardson.

Gurley is probably the better back, but Gordon doesn’t come with the injury caveat, so it’s also possible the Jaguars select to Wisconsin sensation. Gordon also had a great 2014, including a 408-yard day against Nebraska.

Gordon is an incredibly talented back as well, and he would also help the Jaguars tremendously. Let’s face it: Denard Robinson probably won’t be going to any Pro Bowls any time soon. However, pairing Robinson with a player like Gordon or Gurley would benefit the offense tremendously.

Drafting either of these backs would give Jacksonville its first game-changing running back since Maurice Jones-Drew was healthy and not upset about his contract situation. Getting a stable, efficient run game would go a long way in helping Blake Bortles with the offense.

Next: Jacksonville Jaguars: How much more rebuilding?

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