Jacksonville Jaguars Select Auburn Linebacker Jalen McLeod With 194th Pick in 2025 NFL Draft
In the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, with the 194th overall pick, the Jacksonville Jaguars selected Auburn linebacker Jalen McLeod, adding an aggressive and energetic defensive presence to their roster. McLeod, known for his versatility, athleticism, and leadership qualities, becomes the latest Auburn Tiger to make the leap to the NFL, bringing with him a reputation for relentless effort and big-play potential.
McLeod’s journey to the NFL has been marked by perseverance, consistent growth, and standout performances on the collegiate stage. After transferring from Appalachian State to Auburn ahead of the 2023 season, McLeod quickly emerged as one of the Tigers’ most impactful defensive players. He finished his final season at Auburn with 68 total tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks, while also forcing two fumbles. His ability to rush the passer, set the edge in run defense, and drop back in coverage made him a valuable asset in Auburn’s defensive scheme.
Scouts praised McLeod’s quick first step, football IQ, and high motor throughout the pre-draft process. Although considered slightly undersized for a traditional NFL linebacker at 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds, McLeod’s explosiveness and technique helped him overcome any concerns about physical stature. His performance at Auburn’s Pro Day only boosted his stock, showcasing his speed in the 40-yard dash, agility in shuttle drills, and fluidity in linebacker-specific drills.
For the Jaguars, McLeod fills a key need for additional depth at linebacker, especially as the team looks to bolster its special teams and rotational defensive packages. Jacksonville head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke emphasized throughout the draft that they were seeking high-character players who could contribute immediately while developing into long-term assets. McLeod checks both boxes. His experience playing in multiple defensive fronts at Auburn and Appalachian State suggests he can adapt quickly to Jacksonville’s evolving defensive system under coordinator Ryan Nielsen.
“We’re thrilled to add Jalen to the team,” Baalke said in a post-draft press conference. “He’s a dynamic, high-effort player who fits the culture we’re building here in Jacksonville. He’s tough, smart, and loves the game. We see him contributing early on special teams and competing for snaps on defense.”
McLeod’s path to Auburn — and now to the NFL — is a story of steady progression. Originally a lightly recruited prospect out of McEachern High School in Powder Springs, Georgia, McLeod began his college career at Appalachian State, where he developed his skills as an outside linebacker. Over three seasons with the Mountaineers, he racked up 94 tackles and 10.5 sacks, establishing himself as a playmaker in the Sun Belt Conference.
Seeking a greater challenge and exposure on the national stage, McLeod entered the transfer portal and chose Auburn, where he immediately became a key contributor on one of the SEC’s most physical defenses. Facing elite competition on a weekly basis, McLeod rose to the occasion, earning praise from coaches and teammates for his relentless approach to the game.
“Jalen was one of the hardest workers on our team,” Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze said earlier this year. “He brought energy to every practice, every game. He’s a guy you root for because of the way he carries himself and how much he cares about doing things the right way.”
At Auburn, McLeod showed he could thrive against some of the best offenses in college football. In games against top-ranked opponents like Georgia and Alabama, McLeod delivered key tackles, quarterback pressures, and even a critical fourth-down stop that helped the Tigers stay competitive. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations bodes well for his transition to the professional ranks.
Analysts believe McLeod’s immediate impact will come primarily on special teams, an area where athleticism, discipline, and effort are paramount. However, given his skill set, there is optimism that he could grow into a situational pass rusher or a rotational linebacker, particularly in nickel or dime packages where speed and coverage skills are at a premium.
NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah highlighted McLeod as a “sleeper pick” during the draft broadcast. “He’s got a real nose for the football and plays with a ton of energy,” Jeremiah said. “He may not be the biggest guy out there, but he understands leverage, uses his hands well, and has that quick-twitch explosiveness that you love in a linebacker.”
McLeod himself expressed excitement and gratitude after hearing his name called. Speaking to reporters shortly after the selection, McLeod said, “It’s a blessing. I’m ready to get to work. Jacksonville believed in me, and I’m going to give them everything I have — on the field, in the locker room, and in the community. I can’t wait to be part of this team and show what I can do.”
The Jaguars, coming off back-to-back playoff appearances and aiming to take the next step toward Super Bowl contention, have emphasized building a fast, physical defense to complement their explosive offense led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Adding young, energetic players like McLeod fits into that larger strategic vision.
McLeod is expected to join the Jaguars for rookie minicamp in May, where he will have his first opportunity to work with the coaching staff, learn the playbook, and begin competing for a spot on the 53-man roster. Given his history of overcoming challenges and maximizing his opportunities, McLeod is not a player to bet against.
For Auburn fans, McLeod’s selection continues a proud tradition of Tiger defenders making their mark at the next level. And for Jaguars fans, they’re getting a player who brings heart, hustle, and the hunger to prove himself.
As McLeod himself said on draft night, echoing the Auburn rallying cry, “War Eagle — and let’s get to work, Duval!”
