JACKSONVILLE – Jaguars experts – Frank Frangie, Jeff Lageman, Brent Martineau, John Oehser, Brian Sexton, J.P. Shadrick and Kainani Stevens – are breaking down the Jaguars as the 2024 NFL season approaches; today: The rookie class.

Frank Frangie, Radio Voice of the Jaguars

• The rookie class: Will be very good. Wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. – the No. 23 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft – looks terrific so far, and the two defensive linemen – Maason Smith (Round 2) and Jordan Jefferson (Round 4) – have a chance to be in the rotation right out of the gate. And keep an eye on third-round cornerback Jarrian Jones, who might be the steal of the draft. I expect him to start outside from the jump.

Jeff Lageman, Jaguars Analyst and Former Jaguars Defensive End

• The rookie class: Must have an impact for the Jags to go where they want to go. Much has been made about the "onboarding" process from the past draft class, so time will tell if the process changes have an impact.

Brent Martineau, Action Sports Jax Sports Director

• The rookie class: Will surprise people. I think Jaguars General Manager Trent Baalke is on a roll right now. The acquisition of free agents, the big contracts of edge defensive Josh Hines-Allen and quarterback Trevor Lawrence and the overall building of the roster feels good in Jacksonville. Why not be excited about the draft class? We all think highly of Thomas. The upside of Smith is the difference-maker in this draft in my opinion. The Jags won't ask him to do too much, but I have a feeling he will contribute with some notable plays this rookie season. There's a lot to like about Jones, too. I think the surprise contributions could come from Jefferson and even cornerback De'Antre Prince (Round 5). Cam Little (Round 6) has a real chance to be the Jags kicker of the future as well.

John Oehser, jaguars.com Senior Writer

• The rookie class: May make a real impact. This doesn't always happen with rookie classes, but the thought here is the Jaguars' 2024 NFL Draft class could contribute significantly immediately. Thomas has the speed and playmaking ability to force defenses to defend him, and Smith has the size and length to matter in what could initially be relatively limited snaps. The most intriguing rookie early could be Jones, who must play a key role quickly. That could be as an immediate starter. If it's not, he figures to play immediately in a reserve role at nickel with Ronald Darby and Tyson Campbell starting outside. Also: Look for running back Keilan Robinson (Round 5) to contribute quickly as a kickoff returner.

Brian Sexton, jaguars.com Senior Correspondent

• The rookie class: Will be solid. Thomas will be an impact player. Smith and Jefferson will work their way into the rotation, and Jones and Prince are guys with size and speed who should have a chance to carve out a role on the back end. The Jaguars don't need any of them to be rookie-of-the-year candidates, though they certainly would appreciate it; they simply need them to come in, learn their roles and do their jobs.

J.P. Shadrick, jaguars.com Reporter/Editor

• The rookie class: Will contribute quickly. Thomas, though he likely will have some growing pains, should have an impact early in this offense. Smith should be part of the rotation up front on the defensive line. Jones should compete for a starting job, maybe at nickel. That's a strong contribution if all three can earn roles.

Kainani Stevens, Team Reporter/Producer

• The rookie class: Will be a mixed bag. I have high hopes for Thomas out of the gate, but I think the other picks will take time before they contribute significantly in the NFL. I think Smith has the highest upside.

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