Jaguars Add Davon Godchaux After Jessie Bates Trade

The Jacksonville Jaguars made a second defensive addition on November 9, adding veteran interior defender Davon Godchaux from New Orleans' Saints. Jacksonville is sending a 2028 sixth-round selection to New Orleans; the pick could reportedly become a 2027 sixth-rounder if certain conditions are met. The deal came hours after the Jaguars traded for Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III.

Godchaux, a 10th-year NFL veteran, had 15 tackles in eight games for the Saints this season. He recorded 43 tackles across 17 games in 2025. Jacksonville is 6-2 and leads the AFC South.

The Jaguars are adding Godchaux to bolster their defensive tackle rotation, particularly against the run. He is viewed as a potential fit at nose tackle, where Jacksonville has been without Davon Hamilton. The move offers depth, though Godchaux is not expected to match Hamilton’s overall impact or pass-rushing contribution.

With the Bates and Godchaux trades, Jacksonville has used second-, fifth- and sixth-round picks to add to its defense. The team has also kept receiver Brian Thomas Jr., whose possible trade had been discussed. Jacksonville may now be largely finished with deadline moves, while a future decision on Thomas could be revisited in the offseason.