The Jacksonville Jaguars are aiming for a fresh start this offseason, and with good reason. After a lackluster finish to their 2023 campaign, which saw them stumble to a 4-13 record, the franchise is making significant changes at the top. Out are head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke, replaced by Liam Coen and James Gladstone, respectively. This shake-up signals a clear intent to redefine the identity of the team.
As Jacksonville looks to revamp its roster, one notable move already made was locking in left tackle Walker Little with a three-year, $45 million extension back in December. This aligns with their strategic goal to solidify the offensive line, which is crucial for the development of star quarterback Trevor Lawrence. The team has also taken steps to retain talent, tendering restricted free agent Cole Van Lanen. This gives them the opportunity to either match any outside offers or obtain a sixth-round compensatory pick if he signs elsewhere.
However, the Jaguars still have several unrestricted free agents waiting to be re-signed, including veteran guard Brandon Scherff and running back D’Ernest Johnson. Many former Jaguars players have found new homes since the end of the season, which reflects the organization’s shift towards a new era. Quarterback Mac Jones and tight end Luke Farrell have both landed with the San Francisco 49ers, while Andre Cisco is heading to the New York Jets after starting 44 games over the last three seasons for the Jags.
Additionally, Jacksonville has let go of some notable names. The team recently released cornerback Ronald Darby and Pro Bowl tight end Evan Engram. A surprising move involved sending star wide receiver Christian Kirk to the Houston Texans for just a seventh-round pick, a decision that certainly raises some eyebrows among fans. They also cut two more wideouts, Josh Reynolds and Devin Duvernay, signaling a potential overhaul of the receiving corps.
On the flip side, the Jaguars have also bolstered their lineup with fresh talent. They’ve brought in Nick Mullens to take over for Jones, which may provide additional stability at the quarterback position. The secondary has been upgraded significantly with the acquisitions of safety Eric Murray and slot cornerback Jourdan Lewis, both of whom are expected to make an immediate impact.
In the trenches, Patrick Mekari is set to step in as the new starting right guard, while Robert Hainsey will fill the center position vacated by Mitch Morse’s retirement. On the receiving front, Dyami Brown has been signed to a one-year deal and could emerge as Lawrence’s new No. 3 option. Tight ends Johnny Mundt and Hunter Long have also joined the ranks, each offering unique talents in receiving and blocking roles.
With an eye on bouncing back from a disappointing season, Lawrence will now have a fresh supporting cast to work with come 2025. The Jaguars are hoping that these strategic moves will not only reinvigorate the franchise but also lay the groundwork for a successful season ahead. It’s a critical juncture for Jacksonville, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as they look to turn the page on their past struggles.
