Scott Clause / USA TODAY NETWORK

The 2024 NFL Draft is here, and the Jacksonville Jaguars first-round pick is in.

Now, when the Jaguars had the commissioner walk up to the podium on the stage in Detroit, Michigan, they called out a name that could change the franchise in the next few years.

The Jaguars used their No. 17 overall pick to trade with the Minnesota Vikings, and actually drafted at No. 23. They got back pick 167, and a 2025 third and fourth round pick. They drafted LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. 

Thomas is exactly what the Jaguars need, especially after losing Calvin Ridley. They had a ton of needs coming into this draft, such as wide receiver, offensive line, cornerback, and a few others. His ceiling is high, and he was a guy the Jaguars had their eyes on. The board fell their way too well, that they couldn't help but trade back.

Last season, the Jaguars took offensive lineman Anton Harrison out of Oklahoma in the first round. This year, they are going in a different direction by drafting a WR.

The Jaguars have a great history of their first-round picks being huge assets to the team under general manager Trent Baalke 2024, which is going to be a fun season. But the draft isn't over yet - the Jaguars have picks to make on days two and three.

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