Draft picks have been signing contracts all across the league, but the Jaguars haven’t been part of the fun until Monday.
The Jaguars announced that offensive lineman Luke Bowanko is the first member of the team’s nine-player draft class to agree to a deal. The sixth-round pick signed a four-year deal with the team.
Bowanko played all three interior offensive line positions as a three-year starter at Virginia and the Jaguars could use help at those spots heading into next season. Brad Meester has retired, leaving the center job open for the first time in ages and there should be a spirited competition for the guard spot opposite Zane Beadles. Bowanko may not win either of those jobs as a rookie, but his versatility could make him a valuable reserve in the middle of the line.
The Jaguars also took guard Brandon Linder in the third round, so the Jags could have a young line with 2013 first-rounder Luke Joeckel expected back at left tackle to start the season.