Jaguars improve interior defense with Taven Bryan at No. 29

The Jacksonville Jaguars have selected defensive tackle Taven Bryan out of Florida with the 29th overall pick in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

Bryan moves very well for his size and joins one of the most athletic, terrifying defensive fronts in the NFL.

With excellent lateral quickness, Bryan is an asset against the pass and run and could quickly develop into an every-down player for an elite Jaguars defense.

Taven Bryan Bio

Position: DT
School: Florida
College Experience: Redshirt Junior
Height: 6-4
Weight: 291 lbs

Strengths

• Agility. Great lateral movement against run and pass. Tough for interior offensive linemen to keep up with if not properly squared up.
• Resourceful. Uses thinner frame to get edge on blocker, slip through gaps. Gains advantage with his toughness and motor as game drags on.
• Versatile. Can play in 3-4 as defensive end or in 4-3 as defensive tackle with ability to flex out to end on run-stopping downs.

Weaknesses

• Still developing. Doesn't have a great read on plays. Misses some opportunities because of situational unawareness. May be used as pass-rusher in rotation early in pro career.
• Second efforts. Struggles to make an impact if blocker gets early advantage off the snap.
• Production. Recorded just 5.5 sacks, 10.5 tackles for a loss, and one forced fumble over 30 games at Florida.
• Undersized. Thin frame for interior defensive lineman. Gets mauled by larger, stronger blockers.

Athletic testing