Two Jaguars Recognized as Top 99 Defensive Players Heading into 2026

by Saivion Mixson

Aug 5, 2026

Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen (41) is introduced before an NFL football matchup Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. The Packers edged the Jaguars 30-27 on a last-second field goal.

Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

As part of Bleacher Report's NFL 1000 series, their NFL Scouting Department released their ranking of the top 99 defensive players heading into 2026. They gave every player a grade from 0-100, and divided them into six distinct categories, based on their grade: The Standard (97-100), Franchise Cornerstones (94-96), All-Pro Ability (90-93), Pro Bowl Caliber (85-89), High Quality Starter (80-84), and Critical Roster Piece (75-79). The Jacksonville Jaguars, despite finishing third in EPA/play allowed last season, have only two players recognized in the ranking going into 2026.

Josh Hines-Allen, EDGE, Grade: 77

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) scrambles against Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen (41) during the second half at EverBank Stadium.

Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

The first Jaguar on the board, ranked 92nd overall, is the long-time anchor of the Jaguars' pass rush, Josh Hines-Allen. While we're now going into three years removed from his stellar 17-sack season in 2023, Hines-Allen is still one of the more dominant edge rushers in the game today. The Bleacher Report team highlighted his athleticism, ensuing chaos in the running game, and showcased his technique and sheer power as a pass rusher. Hines-Allen ranked as the 15th-best EDGE rusher behind names such as Trey Hendrickson, Tuli Tuipolotu, Josh Sweat and Jonathan Greenard.

Jourdan Lewis, Nickel CB, Grade: 78

Sep 14, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) gets stopped by Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jourdan Lewis (2), linebacker Foyesade Oluokun (23) and cornerback Tyson Campbell (3) in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Unfortunately, neither Jaguar could escape the Critical Roster Piece category, but the highest-ranked Jacksonville player is nickel cornerback Jourdan Lewis at No. 89 overall. The Bleacher Report team highlighted how difficult the nickel corner position is, especially since it's become the focal point of most offenses' rushing attacks. However, Lewis performed admirably last season, showing fearlessness against the run while having career-best numbers in coverage. Lewis only played in 12 games during 2025 due to multiple injuries, including a season-ending foot injury, but when he was on the field, he was a consistent problem for opposing offenses. Lewis was ranked the ninth-best nickel cornerback, behind names such as Dee Alford, Alontae Taylor, Nick Emmanwori and Quentin Lake.