The Jacksonville Jaguars are at a crossroads. With a disappointing 0-3 start to the 2023 season, including a humiliating 47-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills, the question arises: Is it time for a complete overhaul? This article dissects the team’s recent struggles, the weight of expectations, and the necessary steps for a potential turnaround.
The Jaguars’ recent woes extend beyond a mere three games. Since Week 12 of the 2022 season, they’ve managed a dismal 1-8 record, their lone victory coming against the Carolina Panthers. This slump followed a promising 8-3 start that saw them briefly atop the AFC.
Trevor Lawrence throwing a pass during a game
Several factors contribute to this decline. While expectations surrounding Trevor Lawrence, the 2021 No.1 draft pick, were undeniably high, his performance has been inconsistent at best.
Despite showcasing flashes of brilliance during his second season, Lawrence has struggled to establish himself as the franchise quarterback many envisioned. Through three games this season, he’s tied for second in dropped passes (8), but his drop percentage is higher than both Daniel Jones and Deshawn Watson, who have also battled drops.
Lawrence’s supporting cast hasn’t done him any favors. The offensive line has been porous, failing to provide consistent protection. Receivers have struggled with drops, and when open, haven’t consistently made plays.
Perhaps most concerning is Lawrence’s apparent decline in confidence. The once-heralded prospect appears hesitant and unsure in his reads, missing throws a quarterback of his caliber should make.
One glaring example from the Bills game was a sack Lawrence took in the fourth quarter. On a levels concept, with receiver Brian Thomas Jr. running a drag route, the Bills shifted pre-snap, indicating zone coverage. Despite knowing his receivers’ routes and the coverage, Lawrence spun into pressure, failing to see the wide-open Thomas on the drag.
Another alarming play was an interception thrown to Damar Hamlin. While Hamlin’s return and interception were inspirational, the play itself highlighted Lawrence’s struggles. With a chance to cut into a 20-3 deficit, Lawrence overthrew a wide-open Thomas on a deep over route. This was an NFL-caliber throw he simply missed.
Lawrence’s struggles are further magnified in the intermediate passing game. On throws between 10-19 yards, he’s a dismal 8-for-24 with one touchdown and an interception. This puts him ahead of only rookie Bo Nix in completion percentage among quarterbacks with at least 20 attempts in that range.
To enact meaningful change, a clean slate might be necessary. Head coach Doug Pederson’s job security is increasingly precarious. A new coaching staff and a revamped front office, led by a new general manager, could provide the fresh start this franchise desperately needs.
However, the Jaguars’ troubles extend beyond coaching. Their roster construction raises serious concerns.
The 2022 draft, in particular, was a head-scratcher. Selecting Travon Walker first overall, instead of the consensus top pass rusher, Aidan Hutchinson, remains a baffling decision. While Walker has potential, he hasn’t lived up to his draft position. The thought of what a pass-rushing duo of Josh Allen and Hutchinson could have been is frustrating for Jaguars fans.
Further compounding the issue is the questionable decision to draft tight end Brenton Strange at the end of the second round, passing on tight end Luke Musgrave, who was taken by the division-rival Texans eight picks later. The jury is still out on the 2023 draft class, but early returns haven’t been promising. Left tackle Anton Harrison, the team’s first-round pick, has struggled.
The Jaguars’ current predicament is a culmination of questionable draft decisions and misguided free-agent signings. Christian Kirk, while a capable receiver, was a significant overpay. Their top two receivers are Kirk and the unproven Thomas. While Evan Engram is a solid tight end, he’s not a game-changer.
This leaves the Jaguars with a below-average offensive line, a questionable receiving corps, and a quarterback seemingly regressing. While Lawrence still possesses immense potential, the team surrounding him has failed to provide the necessary support.
To escape this rut, a complete organizational reset appears inevitable. New leadership, both on the coaching staff and in the front office, is paramount. The Jaguars need a clear vision, a commitment to building through the draft, and the patience to allow young players to develop.
The Jaguars’ window of opportunity in a weak AFC South is closing. The Houston Texans are much improved, and the Tennessee Titans remain competitive. For Jacksonville to become a contender, they must hit the reset button and embark on a well-defined path to rebuilding.
