Interesting articles today in the Athletic regarding the odds of teams picks 1st and who they should select. The Jaguars are rated 5th in the race to pick #1. Their chances are a slim 9%, however that is totally dependent on whether Lawrence returns this season. The Raiders are considered the favorite at 30 % and it's quite possible that they won't win another game. Of course, the Jaguars play both the Raiders and Titans at the end of the season and would be favored over each if Trevor returns. As I've said before, at this point the best long-term thing for the team would be to lose out enabling them to have the number 1 pick. Admittedly, it is terribly difficult to pull against the team you love- but winning a few more games this season would do nothing to help the team in 2025 and beyond.

Regarding the best choice for the pick, the writer (Nick Baumgardner) recommends the Jaguars select Travis Hunter. It is difficult to argue with that recommendation since I could envision Hunter playing corner opposite Campbell giving them one of the best duos in the NFL. Due to Hunter's unique talents, he could also be utilized as a receiver on critical passing downs. Imagine having to stop both him and Thomas with Engram as a 3rd option. The Jaguars might still have a shot at Hunter if they pick in the top 5. The only other team in the top 5 likely to take Hunter would be the Titans and the winner of their game on December 29 would likely determine which team has the higher pick. If the Jaguars do end up with the first pick, there's a good chance they'd get an offer from a quarterback needy team like the Giants, Raiders or Jets that would be to hard to pass up. This would enable them to get an additional number 1 pick next season (likely top 15) and still have the opportunity to draft a great player like Huner or Will Johnson in the first round.

The article also mentioned that the Jaguars would be the most desirable destination for a new coach and general manager due to having a potential elite quarterback in Lawrence.

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