With the defensive tackle group already in the books, the next stop in this series shifts to another position that could very much be in play when the Jaguars are on the clock at 56 overall: linebacker.
The need here is pretty straightforward. With the departure of Devin Lloyd in free agency, Jacksonville loses a high-level, do-it-all presence in the middle of its defense. While there’s clear belief in Ventrell Miller as a potential piece moving forward, it would be a gamble to rely solely on internal
options to fill that void. Lloyd’s ability to impact all three downs isn’t easily replaced, and the current roster still lacks that same level of versatility and playmaking at the position.
That’s what makes this linebacker class such an interesting fit. Much like defensive tackle, it offers a strong mix of skill sets in that late-second-round range, giving Jacksonville a real opportunity to find a contributor with a defined role early, and potentially much more over time.
This breakdown will highlight a handful of linebackers who could realistically be available at No. 56, while also identifying the best in class across specific traits — from highest ceiling to most reliable floor, coverage ability, run defense, and a sleeper to keep an eye on.
Highest Ceiling: Anthony Hill Jr.
Anthony Hill Jr. has the highest ceiling of any linebacker in the 2026 draft class. He has the ideal blend of explosiveness, versatility, and pure violence as a defender. He plays downhill with intent, doesn’t miss tackles, and brings true sideline-to-sideline range backed by a 4.52 forty at the Combine. As a pass rusher, Hill is a weapon from anywhere on the field. He had 17 career sacks with the Longhorns, and he highlighted his ability to attack from multiple alignments. His flexibility and instinctive feel make him the most natural Devin Lloyd-style replacement in this class as a modern, do-it-all linebacker with legitimate star upside.
Highest Floor: Jacob Rodriguez
Jacob Rodriguez offers the highest floor of any linebacker in the 2026 draft class, bringing a polished, instinct-driven game that consistently shows up on tape. Despite a late transition to the position after beginning his career as a quarterback at Virginia, Rodriguez dominated the college level over the past two seasons, playing fast, smart, and under control. He’s a natural cleanup defender who erases plays once runners reach the second level, and he silenced any lingering concerns about his speed with an impressive combine performance. A true playmaker, he forced seven fumbles and snagged four interceptions in 2025 alone. While not the biggest linebacker in the class, his intelligence, anticipation, and feel for the game more than make up for it, giving him one of the safest projections in the group.
Best In Coverage: Kyle Louis
Kyle Louis stands out as the best coverage linebacker in the 2026 draft class, bringing rare fluidity and comfort in space for the position. The smallest Day 2 linebacker in the mix, Louis makes his impact with instincts, range, and versatility, as he logged significant snaps in the slot while still holding his own as a run defender. His ball production backs it up, totaling six interceptions over the past four years and consistently flashing playmaking ability in coverage. While some view him as more of a big nickel at the next level, Louis has the skill set and competitive toughness to stick as a true middle linebacker. His size does show up when taking on blocks, but in today’s game, his coverage ability and range mirror the impact of players like ex Jaguar, Telvin Smith, as a modern, space-oriented defender built for passing-down value.
Best Run Stopper: Josiah Trotter
Josiah Trotter is the premier run defender in the 2026 linebacker class, bringing a throwback mentality. Physical, aggressive, and wired to attack downhill, Trotter thrives in the box where he can diagnose quickly, sort through traffic, and meet ball carriers with authority. He looks the part too and plays with the kind of urgency and toughness you’d expect from the son of Jeremiah Trotter. One of the younger prospects in the class, he still has room to grow, particularly in coverage, and can play a bit sped up at times, but the foundation is strong. With his mentality and natural feel against the run, he projects as an immediate tone-setter with long-term upside as his game continues to refine.
Projection Pick: Jake Golday
Jake Golday is the sleeper of the 2026 linebacker class, a traits-rich prospect with rare physical tools and intriguing versatility. At 6’4”, 240 pounds with a 4.62 forty, Golday brings an ideal blend of size and movement ability, and Cincinnati wasn’t shy about showcasing it. They deployed him in coverage-heavy roles, including snaps in the slot, because he was just their best athlete in space. He’s a free-flowing pursuit defender who thrives as a run-and-hit hunter in space, rather than taking on blockers downhill. Much of his game is still built on athleticism over anticipation, which makes sense given his relative newness to the position after beginning his career as an edge at Central Arkansas. If the instincts continue to develop, the upside here far outweighs the current projection.
Drop your takes Jaguars fans! Which LB is your favorite in the 2026 NFL Draft?
