2022 NFL Draft: Grading Jaguars’ No. 27 pick of Devin Lloyd

The Jacksonville Jaguars made the decision to trade back into the first round to select their future defensive leader in Utah Utes linebacker Devin Lloyd.

The 2022 NFL Draft continues to be wild and chaotic as trades are piling up. The Jacksonville Jaguars traded with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to receive the 27th overall pick to select Utah Utes inside linebacker Devin Lloyd.

The decision for Jacksonville to trade for a future leader of the defense is a pick that they needed to make. Lloyd is one of the most versatile and consistent linebackers in this 2022 NFL Draft. His speed, instincts, aggressiveness, and dynamic playmaking ability will immediately impact the Jaguars.

In his four years with the University of Utah, Lloyd accumulated 256 total tackles, 43 tackles for loss, 15.5 sacks, eight pass breakups, five interceptions, and two forced fumbles. This past season was the best year in his collegiate career as he accounted for 111 total tackles, 22 tackles for loss, seven sacks, six pass breakups, and four interceptions.

His ability to read the plays, spot the ball carrier, and patiently attack into the backfield for a big play. He is aggressive when he needs to, but Lloyd can also play calm in zone coverage if he needs to

Grade for Devin Lloyd: A-

Last season, the Jaguars’ defense ranked 23rd in the league in rushing yards allowed per game (125.1 yards). They also gave up the third-most rushing touchdowns last season at 22. Lloyd was a player that the Jaguars were concerned was not going to be available when they were next to pick with the 33rd overall pick.