The Jacksonville Jaguars are eager to prove the 2025 season was not a fluke.
Not many thought the Jaguars would make the playoffs last season, let alone run away with the AFC North Division title and host a playoff game. But after a 13-4 season, their first under head coach Liam Coen, the Jaguars now get a chance to show they are still one of the powers in the AFC.
They may have a good chance at it, too. Trevor Lawrence wasn’t healthy entering last season, but he was this time around. And many of his premium passing weapons are back after a high-powered 2025. And one of those weapons, Travis Hunter, is back after an injury-shortened rookie campaign in which he showed glimpses of promise.
But we’re 2.5 months away from meaningful football. Until then, we get to evaluate just how good the Jaguars are compared to the rest of the league.
USA TODAY NFL power rankings: Offseason
The Jaguars landed at No. 17 in USA TODAY’s latest offseason NFL power rankings. This places them in the middle tier of the NFL ranks before they report to training camp at the end of July. Jacksonville’s success in 2026 will largely depend on the continued development of quarterback Trevor Lawrence and if the organization’s recent roster-building efforts can translate into more consistent results on the field.
Jaguars free agent moves
The Jaguars only have one new free agency signing; however, Jacksonville has chosen to re-sign many players during the 2026 offseason
Newbie: Chris Rodriguez Jr., RB
Jacksonville’s outside addition was former Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. With 500 rushing yards and six touchdowns in 2025, Rodriguez gives the Jaguars additional depth and competition in the backfield.
Reputable Resigns: Dennis Gardeck and Quintin Morris
Dennis Gardeck, LB/EDGE: The Jaguars retained veteran defender Dennis Gardeck after he provided depth and experience to the front seven. His versatility remains valuable as their defense hopes to build on recent progress.
Quintin Morris, TE: Jacksonville also brought back tight end Quintin Morris, who appeared in 14 games and made five starts in 2025. After starting on special teams, Morris’ adaptability and flexibility allowed for him to be a top candidate to contribute to offense.
Jaguars 2026 NFL Draft Class
Without a first-round pick because of the trade that landed Travis Hunter in 2025, Jacksonville’s draft began in Round 2. The Jaguars ultimately selected 10 players.
Nate Boerkircher, TE, Texas A&M (Round 2, No. 56)
Boerkircher became Jacksonville’s first selection of the draft. The 6-foot-5 tight end is viewed as a strong blocker who could help expand the offense along with becoming a receiving threat.
Albert Regis, DT, Texas A&M (Round 3, No. 81)
Regis addresses the interior defensive line after recording 49 tackles and two sacks during his final collegiate season. He has the potential to be a great contributor in the defensive tackle rotation.
Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon (Round 3, No. 88)
Pregnon may have the best chance among Jacksonville’s rookies to compete for early playing time. The first-team Associated Press All-American arrives after an impressive season at Oregon and could challenge for snaps on the interior offensive line.
Jaguars 2026 preseason schedule
Jaguars 2026 regular season schedule
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Jaguars in middle of pack in USA TODAY NFL power rankings
Reporting by Samantha Guillotte, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Florida Times-Union
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By Samantha Guillotte, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida | USA TODAY Network
