Blockbuster Jordan Davis, Jessie Bates III trades could put Jaguars over the top in loaded AFC
Jacksonville spends future picks
The Jaguars acquired Bates, 29, from the Falcons for a 2027 second-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round selection. Bates is a three-time second-team All-Pro. Jacksonville then agreed to send Philadelphia a 2027 first-round pick and a 2029 second-round pick for Davis. The report described it as the Jaguars’ third trade for a defensive player that day.
Davis targets run defense
Jacksonville allowed 63.8 rushing yards per game from Weeks 1 through 5. Over its next three games, opponents gained more than 100 rushing yards each, averaging 131.7 per game.
The 6-foot, 336-pound Davis ranks fourth among defensive tackles with 28 tackles on run plays this season, according to Sumer Sports data. His 16 run stops are tied for fifth-most in the league.
Lawrence leads efficient offense
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence has thrown for 1,932 yards, 18 touchdowns and four interceptions through eight games. In his sixth season, the 2021 No. 1 overall pick has a 111.7 passer rating and a 67.6 QBR, both on pace to be career highs.
The trades come as no team has established itself as the AFC’s clear best midway through the 2026 season. Jacksonville is better positioned to contend, but giving up multiple future high draft picks carries risk.
Key points
- Jacksonville sent Atlanta a 2027 second-round pick and a 2028 fifth-rounder for Jessie Bates III.
- The Jaguars traded Philadelphia a 2027 first-round pick and a 2029 second-round pick for Jordan Davis.
- Davis’s run defense could help address Jacksonville’s recent rise in rushing yards allowed.
- Trevor Lawrence has 18 touchdown passes and four interceptions through eight games.