Why 2024 Was a Disaster for the Jaguars and How They Can Fix It
Whether it was coaching, injuries, or just sloppy play, the 2024 Jacksonville Jaguars were one of the worst teams in the NFL. Going into the 2024-2025 season, the Jaguars were content with their previous campaign, finishing 9-8, while just missing out on the playoffs. It was a positive step for a franchise that has had fans yearning for a good season for nearly a decade. Over the offseason, the Jaguars decided to be safe with their money, only signing three players, none of whom made a true impact. They did well in the draft, moving down to select Brian Thomas Jr. out of LSU. Everything was looking good for the Jaguars, especially with the development of Trevor Lawrence and Travon Walker, and the breakout of Josh Hines-Allen. So, what happened?
The Jaguars had a rough first five weeks, with three losses coming within one score. Through eight weeks, it just seemed like the Jaguars couldn’t finish. They had a 2-6 record, with four of the six losses being one-possession games. In Week Nine, they would face the Philadelphia Eagles, another game where they would ultimately lose by one possession. In the second quarter of the game versus the Eagles, Trevor Lawrence landed awkwardly on his shoulder as he tried to scamper for a first down. This hit would sprain his AC joint, keeping him out for three weeks. Lawrence had contemplated surgery but committed to playing through the injury. In Week 13, the Jaguars would play the Texans in a game that would ultimately end Trevor Lawrence’s season. Midway through the first quarter, Lawrence rolled out and was hit in the head by Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shair, sustaining a concussion. The Jaguars placed him on IR, and the team would only win two more games, both against the Titans.
There were many negatives during the 2024 campaign, including Lawrence’s injury, the team's inability to finish games, and very questionable coaching by both coordinators. Although the season was ultimately a failure, there were bright spots. Rookie Brian Thomas Jr. was incredible, breaking all Jaguars franchise rookie receiving records. Travon Walker was another bright spot, recording his second 10+ sack season in a row. Tank Bigsby and Brenton Strange stepped up, becoming more highlights in a rather dim season.
The 2025 offseason was a productive one for the Jaguars, firing GM Trent Baalke and Head Coach Doug Pederson, while bringing in two young minds to replace them. James Gladstone, the former Rams Director of Scouting, was brought in to replace Baalke, while Liam Coen, former Buccaneers OC, replaced Pederson. Throughout the offseason, the Jaguars stuck to Gladstone’s motto of “raising the floor” by making smart signings and not breaking the bank. They made key signings, adding two offensive linemen, Patrick Mekari and Robert Hainsey, on team-friendly contracts, as well as adding wide receiver Dyami Brown from the Commanders on a one-year, $10 million contract. In the draft, Gladstone made his first blockbuster move, trading up for two-way phenom Travis Hunter, out of Colorado.
So, how can the Jaguars avoid the disasters of last season? Being able to close out games is a must. Staying healthy will be the biggest key, especially with Lawrence coming off multiple injuries. The front office has surrounded him with upgraded receiving weapons and strengthened the offensive line, putting him in a much better spot to succeed. On the other side of the ball, the defense must continue to improve, and it begins with Josh Hines-Allen bouncing back to his 2023 form. Travon Walker also must continue to improve, coming off his second consecutive 10+ sack season. If the unit around them takes a step forward, the Jaguars may finally have the roster to break through and become a true force in the AFC.
