JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Recently, the Jacksonville Jaguars find themselves at a crossroads as speculation surrounds the future of head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke. Should owner Shad Khan decide to make changes, these positions could become extremely valuable in the current NFL landscape, especially if Khan opts for a complete overhaul during his 14 years running the team.
Despite a disappointing record of 4-12, the Jaguars possess several appealing factors for potential candidates. Young quarterback Trevor Lawrence shows significant promise, along with up-and-coming receiver Brian Thomas Jr. The defense features key players like cornerback Tyson Campbell and pass rushers Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen. Adding to the allure are a modern practice facility, an anticipated $1.4 billion stadium renovation, and an owner known for his patience and financial backing.
The team holds a top-10 pick in the upcoming draft and boasts around $50 million in salary cap space for the 2025 season. Playing in what is arguably the weakest division in the NFL, the AFC South, and benefiting from Florida’s favorable weather and no state income tax, the Jaguars appear to have a solid foundation. However, their 3-9 record in one-score games suggests they could be closer to success than it seems, despite some severe losses earlier in the season.
While there are many positives, several challenges remain. Khan’s commitment to playing at least one home game per season in London might hinder competitiveness, and upcoming games in 2026 will occur with reduced capacity while the entire 2027 season will be held away from Jacksonville. Furthermore, several veteran players on the roster are nearing the end of their careers without a clear team identity, and the long-term potential of Lawrence as more than just an average starter is uncertain.
Khan’s plans for the team’s future remain unclear as the season approaches its conclusion, with the Jaguars facing Indianapolis in their final game. Notably, after a recent victory against Tennessee, Khan was absent from the locker room, having previously shown signs of distancing from coaching staff before making significant changes.
Pederson has acknowledged the difficulties of the season, expressing his disappointment and recognizing the weight of his responsibilities. “It’s disappointing to see the struggles we’ve faced. Everyone feels it, and as the leader, I take it to heart. I aim to create something positive here, and I believe we are moving in a positive direction,” he stated, suggesting that continuity is critical to improving the team.
In terms of individual performances, backup quarterback Mac Jones delivered a solid outing, avoiding turnovers and completing 15 of 22 passes for 174 yards and two touchdowns. “I need to keep this up, looking to deliver the same performance for three games in a row,” said Jones.
On the downside, the Jaguars must improve their coverage against tight ends, as demonstrated by Tennessee’s Nick Vannett scoring an easy touchdown against them.
Among the notable performances, Brian Thomas shone brightly during the game against the Titans, contributing with seven receptions for 91 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his emergence as a vital part of the franchise’s future. In contrast, defensive tackle Tyler Lacy’s absence from the game indicates he may have slipped down the depth chart, having managed just 25 tackles this season.
Fortunately, there were no new injuries reported for the Jaguars following their match against Tennessee. Currently, Jacksonville holds the fifth position in the 2025 NFL draft, which, if maintained, would mark the third top-five selection in five seasons.
As major changes could be on the horizon, the Jaguars are at a critical juncture as they conclude their season.
