The Jacksonville Jaguars, despite an 8-3 start, finished the 2023 NFL season with a disappointing 9-8 record, missing the playoffs. This performance starkly contrasted their 2022 season, where a late surge secured the AFC South division title. High expectations for the Jaguars in 2023 ultimately fell flat. The offseason has been a busy one, marked by significant activity.
The most notable move was a five-year, $275 million contract extension for quarterback Trevor Lawrence, matching Cincinnati Bengals’ Joe Burrow as the highest-paid player in NFL history. But can the Jaguars turn things around in 2024? Here are three critical questions facing the team.
Who Will Emerge as the Jaguars’ No. 1 Receiver?
Despite losing Calvin Ridley to the division rival Tennessee Titans, the Jaguars have assembled a respectable receiving corps. Christian Kirk returns, joined by free-agent acquisition Gabe Davis and first-round draft pick Brian Thomas Jr.
While Thomas Jr. is likely the long-term solution at the No. 1 receiver position, his immediate ascension to the role in 2024 seems unlikely. Kirk, with his established connection with Lawrence and a productive 2022 season (84 receptions, 1,108 yards, 8 touchdowns), is the frontrunner. However, injuries limited Kirk to 12 games in 2023.
Kirk’s career boasts only one 1,000-yard season, suggesting he may be more of a high-end No. 2 receiver than a true No. 1. Davis also lacks the profile of a top pass-catcher. While the Jaguars’ receiver depth is commendable, the absence of a clear-cut No. 1 target remains a concern.
Can the Jaguars’ Secondary Improve in 2024?
The Jaguars’ secondary struggled in 2023, ranking 26th in passing defense. Offseason additions included safety Darnell Savage and cornerback Ronald Darby, along with draft picks Jarrian Jones (third round) and Deantre Prince (fifth round).
However, Savage’s performance has declined, and Darby has a history of injuries. These factors raise concerns about the secondary’s reliability. The presence of strong pass rushers like Josh Allen and Travon Walker, along with free-agent acquisition Arik Armstead, will undoubtedly aid the secondary.
Even Andre Cisco, arguably the Jaguars’ best defensive back, has faced durability issues. Significant improvement in the secondary is crucial for the Jaguars’ defensive success in 2024.
Will Trevor Lawrence Live Up to His Massive Contract?
Extending Lawrence’s contract was a necessary move for the Jaguars. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 draft, Lawrence represents the franchise’s future. His potential warranted securing him long-term.
However, Lawrence has delivered only one truly impressive season in his three-year career. His sophomore campaign was outstanding: 4,113 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, 8 interceptions, and a Wild Card playoff victory over the Los Angeles Chargers.
Outside of that season, Lawrence’s performance has been inconsistent. A league-leading 17 interceptions in his rookie year and a less impressive 2023 season (4,016 yards, 21 touchdowns, 14 interceptions) raise questions. While injuries affected Lawrence in the latter half of 2023, his performance was already inconsistent before then. The 2024 season is crucial for Lawrence to demonstrate the consistent excellence expected of a generational talent.
