The Jaguars have selected Florida State defensive back Jalen Ramsey with the No. 5 overall pick.
It was fairly obvious the Jaguars wanted a defensive player, and they’re probably pleasantly surprised that Ramsey slipped to No. 5. He’s regarded as one of the draft’s best athletes and can play both cornerback and safety.
The Jaguars previously spent big in free agency on defensive tackle Malik Jackson, safety Tashaun Gipson and cornerback Prince Amukamara. Last year’s first-round pick, defensive end Dante Fowler, missed the entire season due to a torn ACL.
Ramsey figures as an immediate starter, though it remains to be seen which position Ramsey will play. The Jaguars expect to start putting some wins on the board in their fourth year under coach Gus Bradley and third with Blake Bortles at quarterback, and Ramsey is regarded as ready to be an impact player.
“I’m a corner who can play safety,” Ramsey said in an interview with NFL Network after the pick was announced. “A shutdown corner.”
