Maason Smith

In addition to making Brian Thomas Jr. a priority during the draft, the Jaguars invested heavily in LSU’s defensive line. Two former Tigers defensive tackles — Maason Smith, Jordan Jefferson — became Duval County-bound during the draft.

The first of those DT draftees, Smith, is now signed to his four-year rookie contract. The Jaguars inked the No. 48 overall pick Thursday; the contract — which will come mostly guaranteed — will run through 2027. Recent second-round deals — most notably the Colts’ agreement with No. 52 overall pick Adonai Mitchell — undoubtedly helped Smith on the contract front.

Indianapolis guaranteed $700K of Mitchell’s 2026 base salary. Being chosen four spots in front of the Texas wideout, Smith presumably secured better terms from the Jags. As second-rounders are making significant guarantee gains this year, Smith will step in and aim to provide a boost for the Jags’ defensive line.

Jacksonville fared better against the run (ninth) than against the pass (26th) last season, and the team added ex-Trent Baalke 49ers draftee Arik Armstead to provide a proven interior presence alongside Roy Robertson-Harris and DaVon Hamilton. As they did with Travon Walker, the Jaguars will bet on upside with Smith, who saw an injury disrupt his college career.

Smith sustained an ACL tear on LSU’s first defensive possession of the 2022 season, stalling the five-star recruit’s progress. As a freshman in 2021, Smith totaled four sacks. The 6-foot-5, 306-pound interior defender profiles as a bit of a project due to the major injury, and he was not quite as productive in nine games last season. Smith totaled 2.5 sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss in 2023.

The Jags nevertheless took a swing with their second-round pick, with the team clearly impressed with LSU’s D-line operation due to the fourth-round Jefferson investment.