By Matt Sohn
April 26, 2008

Derrick Harvey

The Jaguars need defensive end help. There’s no question about it. With new coordinator Gregg Williams and his high-pressure defense mandating speedy ends to rush the passer off the edge, current starters Reggie Hayward and Paul Spicer didn’t fit the bill. But to give up two third-round picks and a fourth-rounder to trade up to get Florida DE Derrick Harvey? What a blunder.

After Chris Long and Vernon Gholston, there’s a considerable drop-off in DE talent. Harvey’s a quality player, no doubt, but to give up such valuable mid-round selections to take a pass rusher, you better be sure you’re getting the next Jason Taylor — in his prime.

Is there really that much that separates Harvey from Clemson’s Phillip Merling, USC’s Lawrence Jackson or Miami’s Calais Campbell? No. His better burst makes him a slightly better fit and he probably has a little more upside than those three, but there’s simply not enough of a difference to warrant the trade.

If the Jaguars were one great defensive end away from being a front-runner for the Super Bowl, this selection would have had at least some validity. Unfortunately for the Jacksonville faithful, that’s simply not the reality of the situation. The Jaguars need help on the offensive line — particularly at tackle — and are in need of an upgrade at safety and tight end before they can have realistic visions of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.

It’s a new front office in Jacksonville these days. Fired was director of pro personnel Charles Bailey and diminished is the authority of player personnel director James Harris. Meanwhile, the power of coach Jack Del Rio and director of college and pro scouting Gene Smith has been increased. Perhaps they’re still getting accustomed to their new roles in the war room, but regardless, the front office re-alignment is off to a resounding thud.