Top 3 Jaguars first-round picks in franchise history
A look at the three best first-round picks in Jaguars history based on performance, impact and long-term value.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, although they will likely have to make their picks outside of the first round. As fans look forward to the draft, they can take a look back at the players selected in the draft who made the biggest impact. First up: the first round picks.
The Jaguars have had their share of first-round hits over the years, but only a few have truly defined the direction of the franchise. There are plenty that stand out, making it difficult to pick just three, but the best of the best will have set themselves apart through their production, longevity, and overall impact on the franchise. Runners-up: Donovin Darius, Marcus Stroud, John Henderson, Josh Hines-Allen #1: Tony Boselli Boselli wasn’t just a successful pick; he was a franchise-defining one.
As the Jaguars’ first-ever selection, he set the tone for the organization’s early years and became one of the league’s premier offensive linemen. His strength, speed, and size were a deadly combination, allowing him to dominate pass rushers. His performance in the 1996 playoffs, in which he shut down the Bills' Bruce Smith, the all-time sack leader, stands out, with Boselli holding him to zero sacks and just three tackles, which set the pace for the rest of his career.
His eventual Hall of Fame induction, the first Jaguar to receive the honor, only further cements his place at the top of this list. #2: Fred Taylor Drafted in 1998, Taylor became one of the most productive players in Jaguars history. He was consistently one of the Jaguars’ most dependable offensive players.