The Jacksonville Jaguars experienced a remarkable transformation, shifting from a 4-13 season in 2024 to an impressive 13-4 record and clinching the AFC South Championship in 2025 under the guidance of first-year coach Liam Coen. Despite this resurgence, their playoff journey concluded with a narrow 27-24 defeat against the Buffalo Bills in the wild-card round. The upcoming 2026 season presents a crucial test for the Jaguars to maintain this newfound momentum, navigating a more challenging schedule, reduced home game opportunities due to stadium renovations, and strategic roster adjustments. However, with a strong foundation of key young players and savvy draft picks, the team is poised to tackle these hurdles and build upon their recent success.
Jaguars Face Uphill Battle to Maintain Momentum in 2026
In a compelling turnaround for the Jacksonville Jaguars, the 2025 season saw the team dramatically improve their standing, culminating in an AFC South Championship. This significant achievement came after a challenging 2024 campaign, with the team's fortunes reversing under the leadership of new head coach Liam Coen. The Jacksonville team, led by a revitalized roster, showcased their prowess throughout the season, ultimately securing a playoff berth. Their postseason journey, however, concluded on a high-stakes note with a hard-fought 27-24 loss to the Buffalo Bills in the wild-card round, marking the end of a memorable year.
Historically, the Jaguars have faced difficulties in sustaining success following breakthrough seasons. A similar narrative unfolded in 2022 during Doug Pederson’s inaugural year as coach, where the team captured the AFC South title and famously overcame a 27-0 deficit to win a playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Yet, the subsequent 2023 season saw a promising 8-3 start falter, as the team finished 1-5 and surrendered the division title to the Tennessee Titans in the final week. Similarly, the 2017 squad, boasting the "Sacksonville" defense, reached the AFC Championship game before a subsequent season of decline. The key question now facing the Jaguars is how they will manage this newfound success under coach Coen in 2026.
Several critical elements will influence the Jaguars' performance in the upcoming year. The 2026 schedule appears more daunting, with opponents holding a combined winning percentage of .558, a slight increase from the previous season's .529. The Jaguars are set to face two teams that achieved 14-3 records in 2025—Denver and New England—and will compete against five division champions and six playoff contenders, including two matchups with divisional rival Houston. Furthermore, the team will play only seven games at EverBank Stadium due to ongoing renovations for the "Stadium of the Future," resulting in nine road games and potentially one international home game in London.
Roster dynamics will also play a significant role. While key unrestricted free agents like running back Travis Etienne and several linebackers and cornerbacks may depart, the team retains a strong core of talent. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence, wide receivers Parker Washington, Brian Thomas Jr., and Jakobi Meyers, offensive tackle Cole Van Lanen, edge rushers Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker, and specialist Cam Little are all under contract. The Jaguars also possess a robust draft class, including a second-round pick, three third-round picks, and two fifth-round picks, providing General Manager James Gladstone with ample opportunity to replenish the squad. With Lawrence and the offense entering their second year under Coen, a more cohesive and adapted unit is expected.
Beyond internal factors, the competitive landscape of the AFC South remains challenging. Houston's formidable defense and dynamic quarterback C.J. Stroud, along with an improving Colts team, pose significant threats. The Tennessee Titans, under a new coach, are also expected to improve. Injuries, a perennial concern in the NFL, could also impact the Jaguars, as demonstrated by the loss of Travis Hunter for much of the 2025 season. The coaching staff's ability to prepare backups and manage player health will be crucial in a demanding season.
The trajectory of a professional sports team is a dynamic interplay of strategy, talent, and resilience. The Jacksonville Jaguars' recent surge offers a compelling case study in overcoming adversity and achieving unexpected success. Yet, the true measure of their progress will lie in their ability to navigate the subsequent seasons, where heightened expectations and a more rigorous competitive environment demand sustained excellence. This journey underscores the constant evolution inherent in sports, where past triumphs serve as both a foundation and a challenge for future endeavors, requiring continuous adaptation and unwavering commitment to success.