FSH: ON THE TICKER

April 7th, 2009 11:07pm PST

18 DAYS TO THE NFL DRAFT

NFL Draft Preview:
On The Ticker

On the Board: Jacksonville Jaguars....
The Jaguars will have an interesting decision to make come draft day. With Matt Jones, Joey Porter, and Reggie Williams gone, the team now has a screaming need at the wideout position. Currently on the roster and projected starters are Mike Walker and Dennis Northcutt; not your ordinary household names.

With the number eight pick the Jags will undoubtedly be looking at this years crop of receiving talent. Michael Crabtree will be high on their board, although it's not likely he would fall this far. Names like Jeremy Maclin, Hakeem Nicks, and Darrius Heyward-Bey could very easily be sitting at number eight when the Jags reach the big board. Garrard has not had much talent to throw to since he won the job and it's pretty certain the team will be looking at this year's draft to bring in some talent.

If the Jags don't find a preferable wide receiver pick available when the clock starts, they could turn their attention to another pressing need along the offensive line. Even if Garrard doesn't have premium targets to throw to, he'll still need time in the pocket to make plays. Offensive tackle Andre Smith from the University of Alabama could end up being a serious consideration for Jacksonville come draft day.

(Photo by Marvin Gentry/US Presswire)

Before the combine, Smith was considered a possible top five pick and maybe the best tackle available in this year's draft. Don't be surprised if Del Rio and company decide he's a project worth investing in for the long term. Smith is huge at 6'5" and 340-lbs, and although he's a risk with a questionable work ethic, it's one that could pay huge dividends for Jacksonville in the future.

Check back every day for more "On the Ticker!"