Jaguars 2025-2026 Offseason Recap: A New Era in Duval
As the Jacksonville Jaguars head into the 2025-2026 NFL season, the franchise is nearly unrecognizable from the team that took the field just a year ago. With a new head coach, a revamped roster, and a state-of-the-art domed stadium, the Jaguars have embraced a full-scale transformation. While expectations remain tempered, there’s no denying that the foundation for sustained success is being laid in Duval County.
After parting ways with Doug Pederson, the Jaguars opted for a bold approach by hiring Liam Coen as their new head coach. Coen, a former assistant under Sean McVay, brings an offensive pedigree focused on modern passing concepts, dynamic playcalling, and creative run schemes. The hope is that his fresh vision will unlock the full potential of quarterback Trevor Lawrence and a young offensive core.
One of the biggest takeaways from the offseason was Jacksonville’s commitment to getting younger at key positions. Through the draft and free agency, they reshaped both sides of the ball with high-upside talent:
CB Armon Pierce, a top pick expected to be the team’s lockdown corner from Day 1.
HB Kevin Posey, the Jaguars' new feature back following the trade of Travis Etienne Jr. to the Giants.
DT Dion Brown, a disruptive force in the trenches who will anchor the defensive interior.
These additions come alongside a significant trade that sent former starting MLB Devin Lloyd to the Bears in exchange for young right guard Earl Mitchell. Unfortunately, Mitchell suffered an injury in the final preseason game and will miss the first three weeks of the season, delaying his impact.
While Jacksonville focused on youth, they also injected veteran leadership where it was needed most:
LOLB Khalil Mack, a future Hall of Famer brings immediate pass-rushing prowess and leadership to the linebacker corps.
SS Jevon Holland, a versatile defensive back who bolsters the secondary alongside newly re-signed FS Andre Cisco.
Entering his second season, wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. is poised to take a massive leap. With Coen’s offensive philosophy emphasizing explosive plays, Thomas Jr. could become Lawrence’s go-to target and establish himself as one of the league’s premier young wideouts.
The Jaguars made an early statement by going 3-0 in the preseason, securing victories over the reigning champion Eagles, the Falcons, and the Cowboys. While preseason records don’t always translate to regular-season success, the team’s strong performances showcased promising glimpses of what’s to come. Even President Donald Trump chimed in, declaring the Jaguars the "offseason champs", because apparently, that’s a title now.
While Jacksonville has undoubtedly taken steps forward, they aren’t yet considered Super Bowl contenders. The offensive line remains a question mark, the defense is still gelling, and Coen is unproven as a head coach. However, with a young core and a clear vision for the future, the Jaguars are on the rise.
As the regular season kicks off, all eyes will be on this new-look squad to see if their offseason moves can translate into a playoff push. One thing is for certain, change has come to Jacksonville, and the future is bright.