Jags Team Notes

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jags fans, this is an automated news feed that shares what's going on in Jacksonville.

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Over the coming weeks with the NFL’s free agency period on the horizon, I will be taking a closer look at each of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ pending free agents and predicting whether or not each player will return or sign elsewhere.

Up next is tight end Luke Farrell. If you missed our first preview of quarterback Mac Jones, you can find that here.

Farrell was a fifth-round pick by the Jaguars in the 2021 NFL draft and he’s played a fairly big role within the offense, particularly the last two seasons, playing over 800 snaps during that span.

As a pass-catcher, Farrell has only 36 receptions in his career, including just 12 in 2024. He’s totaled 318 yards at 8.8 yards per catch with no touchdowns.

Instead, where Farrell’s biggest impact comes on offense is as a blocker. According to PFF’s metrics, 72% of Farrell’s snaps have been as a blocker over the last two seasons. And for what it’s worth, by PFF’s metrics, Farrell took a major step forward in that regard this past season.

He’s also been a regular contributor on special teams, specifically on the punt coverage and kick return units.

While the emphasis for Liam Coen is on helping Trevor Lawrence bounce back, a key part of that equation will be the Jaguars being much more consistent in the run game. A factor in that is having a tight end who is capable and can hold their own as a blocker–which Farrell can help provide.

In addition to that, the Jaguars have only three tight ends under contract for the 2025 season, so depth is very much a need as well.

Re-signing Farrell isn’t going to break the salary cap bank by any means and it won’t impact whether or not the Jaguars’ further address the position in free agency or do so in the draft.

Bringing him back sure feels like a low risk move that helps provide some stability at a position that needs more depth and in the run game, which is going to have to play a key role in the Jaguars’ success on offense.

Prediction: Jaguars’ re-sign Luke Farrell.

Source

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Here is a first look at Jacksonville Jaguars 2025 NFL draft hat

During Super Bowl week, we got our first look at what the Jacksonville Jaguars’ 2025 NFL draft hat will look like.

These are the hats that draft picks will put on when selected as they walk across the big stage.

The Fantasy Life account on X recently posted pictures of each team’s 2025 NFL draft hat. Below is a look at the Jaguars:

5. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-13) pic.twitter.com/Hc1aTVdmcF

— Fantasy Life (@MBFantasyLife) February 7, 2025

The embroidery that you see on the brim is the same for every team. Then, under each team’s logo is the team’s location printed out and a nice touch is the team specific pin next to the logo.

For the Jaguars, the hat has Duval county listed for the location and “Duuuval!” is, of course, one way that fans show their support for the Jaguars. The pin is of the Main Street bridge that crosses the St. Johns River in Jacksonville.

The Jaguars will enter the 2025 NFL draft holding the fifth overall selection and have 10 picks in total, providing Jacksonville with an excellent opportunity to add to this roster.

A few positions of need for the Jaguars this offseason include addressing safety, cornerback, defensive tackle, and the offensive line.

In early mock drafts, the two most popular picks for the Jaguars are cornerback Will Johnson and defensive tackle Mason Graham. Will one of those prospects be wearing this hat on draft night?

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/09/first-look-jacksonville-jaguars-2025-nfl-draft-hat/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars 2025 free agency predictions: Will RB D'Ernest Johnson return?

Over the coming weeks with the NFL’s free agency period on the horizon, I will be taking a closer look at each of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ pending free agents and predicting whether or not each player will return or sign elsewhere.

Up next is running back D’Ernest Johnson, but if you missed any of our other previews up to this point, you can find them below:

Mac Jones
Luke Farrell

Johnson has spent the last two seasons with the Jaguars. His role during that span has been relatively small, totaling 41 carries in 2023 and 32 carries in 2024, along with 22 total receptions.

This past season specifically, Johnson was more efficient as a ball carrier this year compared to last, averaging 4.5 yards per rush. He’s also shown the ability to pick up yards in the passing game when getting the ball in space, totaling 206 receiving yards on just 22 receptions since 2023.

Of note, Johnson went from playing 142 special teams snaps in 2023 to just 55 this past season–and didn’t include any beyond Week 9. For a back end of the depth chart player, the ability to help out on teams is a must for most.

As of now, the Jaguars have just three running backs under contract for the 2025 season, so multiple additions will have to be made. However, two of those backs are Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby.

In addition to that, and what I really think is working against Johnson when it comes to whether or not he will return, is the depth of this year’s running back draft class.

ESPN’s Jordan Reid said that he had a whopping 33 prospects with draftable grades. The opportunity for the Jaguars to add young, high-end talent at the position on a team-friendly rookie deal will exist and with 10 picks in this year’s draft, Jacksonville could reasonably add multiple backs to their 2025 roster as well.

Something to keep in mind when it comes to the running back position in Liam Coen’s offense is that both Rachaad White and Bucky Irving were top 15 among all running backs in targets last season.

So to put on bow on this, between Bigsby and Etienne both returning and it being an absolutely loaded draft class at running back, I think the Jaguars let Johnson explore free agency. While, of course, the Jaguars will want more roster depth for training camp and to create competition, realistically there may only be one roster spot on the 53-man at this position up for grabs this summer.

Prediction: D’Ernest Johnson signs elsewhere.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...y-predictions-will-rb-dernest-johnson-return/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Report: Jaguars' timeline for hiring next general manager revealed

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ search for their next general manager will officially get underway on Tuesday and there is a reported timeline for when they would like to have this role filled.

Last week, it was reported that the Jaguars requested to interview a number of candidates. Now this week, those interviews will begin, starting on Tuesday with San Francisco 49ers’ Director of Scouting and Football Operations Josh Williams.

49ers Director, Scouting and Football Operations Josh Williams will become the first candidate today to interview for the Jaguars GM job, per source. pic.twitter.com/Dv2zeAftYH

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 11, 2025

Ian Rapoport would also report on Tuesday that there are “roughly 10 or so” candidates for this opening. At this time, we know of nine interview requests that have been made:

– Ian Cunningham, Bears assistant GM

– Mike Greenberg, Bucs assistant GM
*Greenberg has withdrawn his name from consideration

– Chad Alexander, Chargers assistant GM

– Ethan Waugh, Jaguars assistant GM

– Trey Brown, Bengals senior personnel executive

– Brandon Brown, Giants assistant GM

– James Gladston, Rams Director of Scouting

– Josh Williams, 49ers Director of Scouting and Football Operations

– Terrance Gray, Bills Director of Player Personnel

NFL insider Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports would add that the interviews this week will be conducted virtually with Jacksonville having on eye on filling the GM role next week ahead of the NFL combine, which begins on February 27th.

Owner Shad Khan, Executive Vice President Tony Boselli, and head coach Liam Coen will lead the search for the team’s next general manager.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...imeline-hiring-next-general-manager-revealed/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars may still add to Liam Coen's coaching staff

The Jacksonville Jaguars may still be adding to Liam Coen’s offensive coaching staff.

Although the team announced their full 2025 coaching staff last week, Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network reported that the Jaguars are interviewing James Madison offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Dean Kennedy.

Garafolo did not have any specifics on what Kennedy’s role might be with the Jaguars if hired.

Kennedy is just 33 years old and is an “up-and-coming” offensive coach, said Garafolo. The James Madison offense would rank 12th in scoring last season, averaging 35.0 points per game.

Before joining James Madison for the 2024 season, Kennedy was the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Holy Cross in 2023. He got his coaching start as an offensive quality control coach at Florida in 2020.

Perhaps given Kennedy’s background working with quarterbacks, he could be the Jaguars’ assistant quarterbacks coach and working with Spencer Whipple

Below is a look at who currently makes up the Jaguars’ offensive coaching staff:

Liam Coen, Head coach
Grant Udinski, Offensive coordinator
Shane Waldron, Pass game coordinator
Spencer Whipple, Quarterbacks coach
Edgar Bennett, Wide receivers coach
Richard Angulo, Tight ends coach
Chad Morton, Running backs coach
John Van Dam, Offensive pass game specialist
Tyler Tettleton, Assistant wide receivers coach

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/11/jaguars-still-add-liam-coen-coaching-staff/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

3 Things Jaguars are looking for in next general manager

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ search for their next general manager is underway. So what specifically are they looking for as they now fill this important role?

Executive Vice President Tony Boselli was recently on 1010XL’s ‘The Drill’ and went through what he and the rest of those involved in the search are looking for.

In short, there are three boxes that the candidates have to check:

– The character of the individual and understanding who they are.

– What is their vision and philosophy of football?

– And lastly, what’s their process for establishing that vision and then executing on it?

“What I’m looking for first and foremost is the individual,” Boselli. “From a character and integrity standpoint, what kind of ego does this individual has because just the way I’m wired, and probably because of the position I played, you got to be in it for each other, and it’s not about you as an individual.

“I’m not looking for the smartest guy, and to let everyone know they’re the smartest guy because how great they did when they pick good players, and if they don’t, if it’s not a good player, it’s someone else’s fault. And we’re just not going to have that in this building.”

ICYMI#Jaguars EVP and Hall of Famer Tony Boselli on what he wants from the future General Manager of the Jags

Watch the full video

https://t.co/VJ3LTG1R4U pic.twitter.com/IvCdw6Ud0H

— 1010 XL / 92.5 FM (@1010XL) February 10, 2025

A part of this search committee said Boselli will be himself, owner Shad Khan, head coach Liam Coen, and team President Mark Lamping.

“For me, it’s looking at the type of character and the individuals they are, and then what’s their vision?” added Boselli. “How do they how do they see building the team? What’s their philosophy? And then the process, how do you get to that answer? How do you work in a collaborative method?”

During Coen’s introductory press conference, he would also mention when discussing the GM role the importance of communication and alignment from top to bottom so that all are on the same page when it comes to not only roster building but establishing a strong culture as well.

At this time, there are eight reported candidates who will be interviewing for the general manager role. Josina Anderson would also report that the Jaguars’ may have interest in a former GM candidate, although no formal interview or discussions have happened.

Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports would report that this week the candidates are interviewing virtually and that the Jaguars hope to have the role filled sometime next week ahead of the NFL Combine.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...uars-are-looking-for-in-next-general-manager/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Highlights from Jaguars' ST coach Heath Farwell's first 2025 press conference

Jacksonville Jaguars’ special teams coordinator Heath Farwell met with reporters on Thursday. Below you can find the highlights from the press conference.

Farwell has been the Jaguars’ special teams coordinator since 2022 and that group has become one of the better units in football.

In 2023, the Jaguars ranked ninth in PFF’s special teams grade, and they were sixth in 2024, along with having multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro players over the years as well.

– “We got a good group,” that’s one of the reasons I wanted to be back, said Farwell of the Jaguars’ special teams unit and other special teams coaches.

– “Continuity. The guys love him,” said Farwell about bringing back assistant special teams coach Luke Thompson. He works with the fliers on the punt coverage unit and on the field goal unit, where the Jaguars had some blocked attempts last season.

– “Great energy,” said Farwell about his first impression of Liam Coen. “He’s always going to tell you how he feels, and that’s a great quality.” Farwell notes the overall youth and energy of Coen’s coaching staff.

– “My guys were great last year,” said Farwell about his special teams players. Farwell adds that coming together with Coen and the next GM to formulate what the best plan is for the special teams unit. “We’re going to have to bring up some young guys and we’re going to lose a player or two,” added Farwell.

– Shad Khan made it known with Farwell right away after the team moved on from Doug Pederson, that they wanted to keep Farwell regardless of who the next head coach was.

– “I’ve never seen him so excited about something,” said Farwell about Tony Boselli in his new role and helping the Jaguars turn things around. “Nobody is more passionate about this organization than Tony Boselli.”

– Farwell mentioned a big offseason project is studying the other top special teams units to see what they’re doing and if the Jaguars can implement any of that within their own scheme.

Offensive Coordinator Grant Udinski, Defensive Coordinator Anthony Campanile and Special Teams Coordinator Heath Farwell address the media. #DUUUVAL https://t.co/5OKOjWIPI2

— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) February 13, 2025

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...h-heath-farwells-first-2025-press-conference/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Who have Jaguars interviewed for general manager job?

Who have the Jacksonville Jaguars interviewed so far for their general manager opening?

Interviews started earlier this week and are taking place virtually. CBS Sports NFL insider Jonathan Jones would report that the Jaguars hope to have a new general manager in place by the end of next week, prior to the NFL Combine.

During a recent interview on 1010XL, Executive Vice President Tony Boselli highlighted what the Jaguars are looking for in their next GM:

– The character of the individual and understanding who they are.

– What is their vision and philosophy of football?

– And lastly, what’s their process for establishing that vision and then executing on it?

Boselli also added that the search committee said Boselli will be himself, owner Shad Khan, head coach Liam Coen, and team President Mark Lamping.

With help from the Jaguars team site, here is who Jacksonville has completed interviews with up to this point:

Former Titans GM Jon Robinson: The Titans had a record of 66-48 from 2016-2022 during Robinson’s tenure. They made the playoffs four times and reached the AFC Championship Game once. However, Robinson also traded away star receiver AJ Brown on draft night in 2022 to the Philadelphia Eagles as well.

Giants assistant GM Brandon Brown: Brown has been in this role with the Giants since the 2022 season. He got his start at the NFL level as a scout in the Colts’ organization in 2015 before joining the Eagles as the assistant director of pro scouting and then being the director of pro scouting.

Bills Director of Player Personnel Terrance Gray: The 2024 season was Gray’s third in his current role with the Bills. He’s been in the Buffalo organization for the last eight seasons. His background is largely rooted in college scouting.

Bengals senior personnel executive Tre Brown: Brown has been in Cincinnati since 2021 and was a finalist for the Jets GM opening this offseason. He’s also been apart of the Philadelphia and New England organizations in scouting roles. Bengals on Sports Illustrated wrote that Brown has worked closely with GM Duke Tobin during his tenure. Brown has interviewed for a few different GM openings over the years.

Chargers assistant GM Chad Alexander: The 2024 season was Alexander’s first as the assistant GM with the Chargers. Before that, he spent five seasons with the Jets as their director of player personnel. Alexander’s career started in Baltimore’s organization where he spent 20 seasons, including as a pro scout. The Chargers went from missing out on the playoffs to a playoff team in 2024 thanks to revamping their roster in free agency and hitting on a number of draft picks.

49ers Director of scouting Josh Williams: Williams has been with the 49ers the last 14 seasons and has a scouting background. He’s worked on both the college and pro scouting sides. In his current role, which he was promoted to last offseason, Williams has worked closely with 49ers’ general manager John Lynch and “directs pro and college scouting efforts,” according to the 49ers team site.

Rams Director of scouting strategy James Gladstone: Gladstone has been with the Rams for eight seasons and in his current role for four years. During that span, the Rams organization has finished with a combined record of 37-31, which includes three 10-plus win seasons, three playoff appearances, and a Super Bowl win, hitting on a number of draft picks and often operating aggressively in free agency.

Still to interview, based on the initial requests that the Jaguars made for this role, is Ian Cunningham, the Chicago Bears assistant GM and someone Adam Schefter believes will be “in contention” for this job.

Also of note, current Jaguars interim GM Ethan Waugh, who was the assistant GM under Trent Baalke, is reportedly a “strong” candidate for this role.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler would also mention Packers VP of Player Personnel Jon-Eric Sullivan as a name to watch–although no formal interview has been reported.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/13/who-jaguars-interviewed-general-manager-job/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

ESPN insider says 'watch' for Jaguars to add at this position group in free agency

One position in particular that we could see the Jacksonville Jaguars target in free agency is cornerback.

In a recent article by ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, as he was highlighting the Jaguars’ roster, he mentioned cornerback specifically as a position group to watch for in free agency.

Bolstering the cornerback position–as well as safety–will be a top priority for the Jaguars this offseason. A year ago, the Jaguars would rank 24th in completion rate and 30th or worse in interceptions, passer rating, and yards per pass attempt allowed, with too many big plays being surrendered.

Returning for the 2025 season are Tyson Campbell and Jarrian Jones, but solidifying the boundary spot opposite of Campbell will be a priority.

With help from Pro Football Focus’ free agency rankings, some of the top cornerback options include DJ Reed, Charvarius Ward, Rasul Douglas, Carlton Davis, Asante Samuel Jr., and Byron Murphy.

I recently took a closer look at a few of these cornerback options. Click here for more.

Priority No. 1 for new Jaguars’ defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile is to make sure that his defenders are playing with the right play-style, while the scheme is secondary.

“The most important thing when you talk about defense is your play-style,” said Campanile on Thursday. “My vision for us defensively, we want to be a tough, fast, physical, violent at the point of attack team.”

Scheme-wise, Campanile has operated in a number of different defenses, including from a secondary perspective, Brian Flores’ man coverage-heavy defense, Vic Fangio’s Cover-2 and disguise-heavy scheme, and most recently Jeff Hafley’s Cover-3 dominant scheme.

This wide-ranging background will help Campanile implement a system that is malleable, and able to adjust on the fly based on what the opponent is doing what what his own players do well.

The Jaguars currently have $32.27 million in available cap space, according to Over the Cap. In terms of spending power, this is the 17th-most in the NFL, although like every other team, the Jaguars do have cap maneuvers available to them to create more room.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...watch-jaguars-add-position-group-free-agency/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars build the trenches in 7-round 2025 NFL mock draft

Who did the Jacksonville Jaguars select in the latest seven-round 2025 NFL mock draft from Pro Football Network?

With 10 selections in this year’s draft, the Jaguars have a terrific opportunity to infuse the roster with young and high-end talent on rookie deals. Some of the key positions they have to address include the secondary and in the trenches on both sides of the ball.

Ben Rolfe didn’t only put together a one or two round mock draft, but he went all seven rounds. So let’s break down each of the Jaguars’ selections.

Pick 5: Will Campbell, OT, LSU​

The offensive line play has to improve this season, as head coach Liam Coen put it. Campbell can add competition at tackle for the Jaguars or he can move inside and play guard. As both a run-blocker and a pass-blocker, Campbell has consistently graded out as one of the better performers, according to PFF’s metrics.

“He’s explosive off the ball, with strong hands and the athleticism to handle quick edge rushers,” wrote Rolfe. “His tape speaks for itself as one of the top tackles in the class — don’t let arm length concerns overshadow his elite skill set.”

Pick 35: Wyatt Milum, G, West Virginia​

Rolfe agrees with Coen that the offensive line play for the Jaguars has to improve. Milum played almost 3,000 snaps over four seasons. He was dominant in 2024, allowing just six pressures and no sacks over 356 pass-blocking snaps and was one of PFF’s highest-graded run-blockers as well.

“Milum has a rare combination of intelligence, toughness, and skill,” wrote Rolfe. “He is a fantastic pass protector and has the physicality to dominate the run game as well. He is rarely in the wrong position and can be an immediate starter who elevates this line in both assets of the game. There is a chance he will be viewed as a first-round pick after the pre-draft process.”

Pick 70: TJ Sanders, IDL, South Carolina​

Building through the trenches. The Jaguars run defense and ability to get after the quarterback more consistently also has to improve, like the offensive line play. Jacksonville ranked 32nd in ESPN’s pass rush win rate last season and 27th in run stop rate.

Sanders was one of PFF’s highest-graded interior run defenders in 2024. He also generated 33 pressures and five sacks as a pass rusher.

“T.J. Sanders would instantly add explosiveness to that group, either as a starter or a rotational piece,” Rolfe wrote. “You cannot have too many players along that line, as we have seen from the Eagles, and Sanders would be another valuable piece to the puzzle. He is a force both against the run and collapsing the pocket and could be a fantastic value in Round 3.”

Pick 88: Lathan Ransom, S, Ohio State​

The Jaguars secondary was among the worst in football last season when it came to surrendering explosive passing plays. This included 22 plays of at least 30 yards and eight plays of 50 or more yards, according to ESPN.

Ransom played most of his snaps at free safety but moved around the secondary. He was one of PFF’s highest-graded run defenders at safety and had three interceptions and 10 pass breakups over his five college seasons.

“He can play both in coverage and run support, even if his tackling can sometimes be a little suspect,” Rolfe wrote. “He is perhaps better in coverage, where he is excellent at reading the quarterback’s eyes and getting into passing lanes. He adds leadership to that versatility and had already shown an ability to develop his game.”

Pick 106: Tai Felton, WR, Maryland​

After totaling 732 yards in 2023, Felton had a career year in 2024, with 1,119 yards at 11.7 yards per catch with nine touchdowns. Getting more production in the passing game from receivers not named Brian Thomas Jr. will be on the to-do list this season for Coen.

Pick 125: Sebastian Castro, S, Iowa​

The Jaguars are double-dipping at safety–and that makes sense. Improved play isn’t only needed but bolstering the depth for 2025 and beyond is as well.

Although listed as a safety, the bulk of Castro’s snaps have come in the slot, where the Jaguars do have Jarrian Jones. In coverage, Castro allowed a completion rate of 61% in his career with four interceptions and 10 pass breakups at only 6.9 yards per catch. He’s also graded out quite well against the run.

Pick 143: Jacob Parrish, CB, Kansas State​

In addition to giving up big plays, the Jaguars’ secondary ranked 24th in completion rate and 30th or worse in yards per pass attempt, interceptions, and passer rating.

Parrish is a boundary cornerback who has a career completion rate of just 52% when targeted. He allowed a career-low 9.3 yards per catch in 2024 and has four interceptions and 10 pass breakups over the last two seasons.

Pick 184: Joshua Gray, G, Oregon State​

Gray is a very experienced player with almost 3,700 career snaps. Most of his playing time came at left tackle, but he moved to left guard in 2024. This season, Gray would allow just one sack and 12 pressures over 466 pass-blocking snaps. He was also an above-average run-blocker by PFF’s metrics.

Pick 196: Xavier Truss, G, Georgia​

More offensive line help for the Jaguars. Truss has played every offensive line position except for center in his college career. As primarily a right guard in 2024, Truss allowed four sacks, 16 pressures over 470 pass-blocking snaps and received a so-so run-blocking grade.

Pick 223: Caden Prieskorn, TE, Ole Miss​

Tight end is a sneaky need for the Jaguars. For one, they only have three tight ends under contract currently, but in addition to that, a strong blocking presence at that position will be important to Coen’s offense.

Prieskorn graded out decently as a run-blocker this past season, improving from his 2023 grade. In his two seasons at Ole Miss, he was a reliable target and caught 44 passes at an impressive 15.6 yards per catch with five touchdowns and was particularly good at picking up YAC. According to PFF, 44% of his snaps in 2024 came from the slot.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...-the-trenches-in-7-round-2025-nfl-mock-draft/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars announce 5 finalists for general manager job

After a week of virtual interviews with 10 candidates, the Jacksonville Jaguars announced that they have five finalists for their general manager opening.

This group includes Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham, Packers VP of Player Personnel Jon-Eric Sullivan, Jaguars interim GM Ethan Waugh, Rams Director of Scouting James Gladstone, and 49ers Director of Scouting and Football Operations Josh Williams.

The Jaguars also announced that these in-person interviews will begin on Wednesday, February 19th.

pic.twitter.com/iMzqfL2SYd

— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) February 15, 2025

The Jaguars’ timeline for naming their next general manager is a short one, with Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports reporting that Jacksonville would like to have this role filled by the end of next week prior to the NFL scouting combine.

Those that interviewed but are not among the finalists include former Titans GM Jon Robinson, Raiders assistant GM Champ Kelly, Chargers assistant GM Chad Alexander, Bills Director of Player Personnel Terrance Gray, Bengals Senior Personnel Executive Trey Brown, and Giants assistant GM Brandon Brown.

The search committee for this job opening includes Shad Khan, Tony Boselli, Liam Coen, and team President Mark Lamping.

Recently in an interview with 1010XL Boselli highlighted what the Jaguars are looking for in their next general manager:

– The character of the individual and Boselli and Co. understanding who they are.

– What is their vision and philosophy of football?

– And lastly, what’s their process for establishing that vision and then executing on it?

For more on each of these candidates, follow the links below:

Ian Cunningham

John-Eric Sullivan

Ethan Waugh

James Gladstone

Josh Williams

(This article was updated to provide additional information.)

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/15/jaguars-announce-5-finalists-general-manager-job/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

One Jaguars player makes Bill Belichick's 2024 'All Belichick' team

Bill Belichick released his 2024 All-Belichick team on Instagram and included was Jacksonville Jaguars’ wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.

At the Z-receiver position, Belichick had Minnesota’s Justin Jefferson at the top of his depth chart, followed by Thomas and then Dallas’ CeeDee Lamb.

At the X-receiver spot was Cincinnati’s Ja’Marr Chase, New York’s Malik Nabers, and Washington’s Terry McLaurin. In the slot is Detroit’s Amon-Ra St. Brown, Seattle’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and the Chargers’ Ladd McConkey.

Belichick is a six-time Super Bowl champion head coach, a three-time AP Coach of the Year, and is now the head coach at the University of North Carolina.

Below is the entire 2024 All-Belichick team. Michael Lombardi also helped in putting this team together.

​

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bill Belichick (@billbelichick)​

Thomas had a terrific rookie season, which included finishing fourth in the NFL’s Rookie of the Year voting. In what was a loaded wide receiver draft class that included seven first round selections, Thomas was the most productive.

He finished the season totaling 1,282 receiving yards, which was the third-most among all receivers last season. Thomas was a reliable target, catching 67% of his passes and averaged 14.7 yards per catch with 10 touchdowns, according to PFF.

Perhaps most impressive was that Thomas was the focal point of the offense with 129 targets, however, opposing defenses still struggled to contain him.

Thomas’ combination of speed and route running ability makes him a difficult matchup and allows him to make plays at all levels of the field.

As good as Thomas was in 2024, new Jaguars’ offensive coordinator Grant Udinski is also excited about what’s ahead for the second-year receiver with the growth and potential that is still in front of him.

“Just in terms of the excitement of the tools and the ability that he has and the potential there,” Udinski said. “You saw the results this year, but the potential for growth beyond this year and the different ways you can use him to attack defenses in a multitude of ways.”

Thomas’ role within the offense is going to grow under Liam Coen, but that isn’t only in regards to the number of potential targets, but how Thomas is utilized within the offense as well from where he lines up to the routes he’s asked to run.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...makes-bill-belichick-2024-all-belichick-team/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Who are Jaguars' 2025 exclusive rights free agents?

We know who the big unrestricted free agents are for the Jacksonville Jaguars, but who are their exclusive rights free agents and what’s the difference between the two?

The Jaguars have two exclusive rights free agents (ERFA) this offseason, according to Over the Cap, and that is defensive linemen De’Shaan Dixon and Esezi Otomewo.

An exclusive rights free agent (ERFA) is a player with two or fewer accrued NFL seasons. In order to gain an accrued year, a player must be on a team’s 53-man roster for at least six regular season games.

While ERFA has the words ‘free agent’ in it, this isn’t like being an unrestricted free agent where that player can choose where they go. If an ERFA is extended a qualifying offer from their current team, they cannot negotiate with other organizations.

These qualifying offers are one-year deals at the league minimum amount based on the player’s tenure. If an ERFA is not extended that qualifying offer, they become unrestricted free agents.

Dixon would miss the entire 2024 season with an ACL injury he sustained during training camp. He joined the Jaguars in 2022 as an undrafted rookie and appeared in three games that season. Dixon then spent 2023 on the team’s practice squad.

Otomewo was a fifth-round pick by Minnesota in 2022. This past season, he played in four games defensively for the Jaguars, where he totaled eight pressures and a sack in only 53 pass rush snaps, according to PFF.

With these ERFA contracts being league minimum deals, it’s not uncommon to see these players brought back relatively often. With Otomewo, specifically, having seen some playing time last season and making the 53-man roster, one would think it’s quite likely he returns.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/16/aguars-2025-exclusive-rights-free-agents/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars sign familiar faces at QB and WR to active roster

The Jacksonville Jaguars announced on Monday that they have signed quarterback John Wolford and wide receiver Louis Rees-Zammit to their active roster.

Wolford landed on the Jaguars’ practice squad in December of last season. Before that, he spent the 2024 offseason and training camp in Tampa Bay, where Liam Coen was the offensive coordinator, giving Wolford an already established foundation of the new Jacksonville offense.

Wolford has been in the NFL since 2018 when he went undrafted that year and originally signed with the New York Jets. He was also with the LA Rams from 2020-2022, completing 58% of his pass attempts at 6.0 yards per pass with one touchdown to five interceptions across seven games.

Quarterback is a position we will continue to see the Jaguars add to in come capacity this offseason. As of now, Trevor Lawrence and Wolford are the only quarterbacks under contract for the 2025 season.

Another familiar face for the Jaguars, Rees-Zammit is from Penarth, Wales and is a former professional Rugby player.

Rees-Zammit spent offseason programs and training camp with Kansas City last year before being released and catching on with the Jaguars’ practice squad.

With the Jaguars’ Rees-Zammit is a receiver, but with the Chiefs he was a running back.

The Jaguars noted that Rees-Zammit is a member of the NFL’s International Pathway Program (IPP).

“Established in 2017, the IPP program aims to provide elite international athletes with the opportunity to compete at the NFL level, improve their skills and ultimately work to earn a spot on an NFL roster.”

With the roster exemption, the Colts are able to carry 91 players on their roster through training camp rather than the usual 90.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/17/jaguars-sign-quarterback-wide-receiver-active-roster/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars' QB Trevor Lawrence shares update on shoulder injury

On a recent appearance on the Up & Adams Show with Kay Adams, Jacksonville Jaguars’ quarterback Trevor Lawrence provided an update on his shoulder injury.

“It’s going well,” said Lawrence. “I was six weeks in the sling, been out for three weeks, so I’m going on Week 10 and it’s feeling a lot better.

“It’ll be a little bit more work to do, build some strength, get some range of motion, but I’m on my way. It’s feeling a lot better than it was in that sling.”

#Jaguars QB @Trevorlawrencee gives an update on his shoulder injury recovery process…

Lawrence: “It’a going well, I got the sling off three weeks ago.”@heykayadams @Jaguars | #DUUUVAL pic.twitter.com/FLLaHe8TYU

— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) February 17, 2025

After being placed on injured reserve after a concussion that he suffered in Week 13 on an illegal hit, Lawrence and the Jaguars decided that he would undergo surgery to repair an AC joint in his non-throwing shoulder.

Lawrence suffered the injury in Week 9 and missed Weeks 10-11 in an attempt to let it heal.

During his season-ending press conference back in mid-January, Lawrence said one of the main things for him in 2025 will be staying healthy.

While he did play in 16 of the 17 games in 2023, Lawrence noted that he dealt with injuries for much of the year. This past season, Lawrence played in 10 games.

“In really the last two seasons, that’s been a struggle for me,” said Lawrence about staying healthy. “Last year I only missed one game because of it, but still, I was dealing with a lot of injuries and that’s something in my career, until last year, I didn’t deal with really much. This year was tough, missing basically half the season because of injuries and having to watch.

“Definitely get a different perspective of everything when you’re not in the middle of it every day. So I think I’ve learned a lot. The main thing is I’ve just gotta be healthy, whether that’s getting stronger this offseason or limiting some of the hits when I’m out there.”

As new head coach Liam Coen has mentioned, the Jaguars’ new offense under him will be built around Lawrence, which includes getting his input along the way.

Offensive coordinator Grant Udinski would describe the Jaguars’ new offense as “multiple,” throwing different looks and having a variety of different skill sets on the roster to throw at opposing defense to keep them off-balanced. A strong run game will be an important element as well.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...revor-lawrence-shares-update-shoulder-injury/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars named best fit for a top free agent cornerback by ESPN

NFL analyst Matt Bowen of ESPN recently went through his top 50 free agents list and selected the best team fit for each of those players. So who did Bowen select for the Jacksonville Jaguars?

The 22nd ranked free agent on Bowen’s list is cornerback Carlton Davis, who Bowen believes would be a good fit for what the Jaguars’ need.

“Davis is a veteran with man and zone coverage traits, and he is a willing tackler on the perimeter,” wrote Bowen.

This isn’t the first time that we’ve seen Davis connected to the Jaguars. ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler mentioned the Jaguars as a team to watch when it comes to Davis and free agency.

Davis played his first six seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and spent 2024 with the Detroit Lions, where he missed the final three games of the season with a jaw injury.

In total, Davis surrendered a completion rate of just 59% last season at 13.6 yards per catch. He also came away with two interceptions, six pass breakups, and quarterbacks had a passer rating of 87.9 when targeting him.

For his career, Davis has allowed a completion rate of 58% at 13.1 yards per catch with 11 interceptions and 73 pass breakups in seven seasons.

One of the biggest needs this offseason for the Jaguars lies in the secondary at both safety and also in needing to find a starting boundary corner to line up opposite of Tyson Campbell.

Collectively last season, the Jaguars’ pass defense ranked 24th in completion rate and they were ranked in the bottom-three of the NFL in passer rating, interceptions, and yards per pass attempt allowed—giving up way too many big plays.

At the moment, the Jaguars have just over $32 million in available salary cap space, according to Over the Cap—although they have the means to create more room. Pro Football Focus is projecting that Davis lands a three-year deal in free agency worth $42 million.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...for-free-agent-cornerback-carlton-davis-espn/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars free agency: Dolphins 'not expected' to franchise tag S Jevon Holland

Could this be of interest to the Jacksonville Jaguars? The Miami Dolphins are reportedly “not expected” to use the franchise tag on safety Jevon Holland, according to Cameron Wolfe of the NFL Network.

Holland is considered by many to be the top safety in this year’s free agent class. This, of course, is a position where the Jaguars must improve in 2025.

Holland played his first four season with the Dolphins and is a former second-round selection. He is still just 24 years old as well.

Throughout his career, Holland has graded out well as a run defender, according to PFF’s metrics, and has mostly been a reliable tackler as well.

Over his four NFL seasons, Holland has allowed a completion rate of 67%–although there are two seasons where he had a completion rate of 61% or lower–at 12.5 yards per catch. He’s also come away with six interceptions and 16 pass breakups.

In the Jacksonville defense, Holland would take over as the new free safety.

“This is a guy who was a three-time captain in Miami and an explosive playmaker,” said Wolfe. “The last year and a half he’s been banged up, hasn’t played his best ball, but somebody’s going to get a guy, under 25, still ready to make that playmaking ability.”

Dolphins not expected to put the franchise tag on safety Jevón Holland putting him on track to test free agency as top player at his position, barring any surprises.

For @nflnetwork The Insiders nuggets on Holland, Terron Armstead, Tyreek Hill & interesting #Dolphins offseason: pic.twitter.com/OzsosJfg7t

— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) February 19, 2025

Wolfe adds that in free agency, keep an eye on the defensive side of the ball for the Jaguars, and even mentioned Holland as a potential fit.

Not only at safety, but the secondary play as a whole for the Jaguars has to get a lot better. The Jaguars’ finished the 2024 season ranked 24th in completion rate and they were 30th or worse in interceptions, passer rating, and yards per pass attempt allowed.

Big plays, which often falls on the shoulders of the safety position, were an issue as well. The Jaguars’ defense allowed 22 plays of at least 30 yards last season and eight receptions of 50 or more yards as well.

Given Holland’s age, past production, and experience, a lot of teams are going to be interested and he’s going to be in store for a big pay day.

Pro Football Focus is currently projecting that Holland lands a four-year deal worth $98 million. The Jaguars rank 17th in salary cap space, according to Over the Cap–although they have the ability to create quite a bit more room if needed.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...ins-not-expected-franchise-tag-jevon-holland/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars complete second interview for GM job with Bears' Ian Cunningham

The Jacksonville Jaguars announced that they have completed their second interview for their general manager opening with Bears’ assistant GM Ian Cunningham.

We have completed an in-person interview with Ian Cunningham for our General Manager position. pic.twitter.com/cMUj2WUfLe

— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) February 20, 2025

After a first round of virtual interviews last week with 10 candidates, the Jaguars’ have five finalists for the GM role and are holding in-person interviews this week.

Cunningham has interviewed numerous times for other GM openings in recent years. He’s twice been a finalist for the Tennessee job, was a finalist for the Washington opening as well, and reportedly turned down the Arizona job in 2023.

Cunningham has been the Bears’ assistant GM for the last three seasons. He got his start as a college scout with the Baltimore Ravens under Ozzie Newsome and was a part of the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl run in 2017.

The Jaguars will hold in-person interviews Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of this week and are expected to make a final decision over the weekend, prior to the NFL scouting combine kicking off next week.

While the Jaguars themselves haven’t tipped their hand in regards to where things stand among the candidates, from the outside, there are a lot of reports that suggest Cunningham is a top candidate for this role.

Prior to the first round of interviews taking place, ESPN’s Adam Schefter said that Cunningham was a name that needed to be on everyone’s radar when it came to the Jaguars’ GM opening.

Then as the first round of interviews were taking place, SI’s Albert Breer said that Cunningham a “top name in Jacksonville.”

Then this week, NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe, he was told by a couple of people in Duval to “keep an eye” on Cunningham. FOX NFL insider Jordan Schultz would report that his sense all along has been that this is “Cunningham’s job to lose.”

So far, the Jaguars have also completed an in-person interview with 49ers’ Director of scouting and football operations Josh Williams.

Still to interview are Packers VP of Player Personnel Jon-Eric Sullivan, Jaguars interim GM Ethan Waugh, and Rams Director of Scouting James Gladstone.

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/20...iew-general-manager-job-bears-ian-cunningham/

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

3 Top free agent options for Jaguars at guard

The Jacksonville Jaguars have to bolster the offensive line unit this offseason, especially at guard. So, who are some of the top free-agent options out there for the Jaguars?

During his introductory press conference, head coach Liam Coen mentioned that the offensive line play as a whole in 2025 has to improve.

This can be accomplished in a few ways, which could include finding a long-term option at center with Mitch Morse entering the final year of his deal. It could also include adding more competition at tackle. But it must include adding to the guard position.

Last season, the Jaguars ranked 19th in yards per carry, 25th in ESPN’s run-block win rate metric, and generated the third-fewest yards before contact.

When it comes to Coen turning the Jacksonville offense around, a key part of that equation is going to include having a run game to lean on. This will keep the Jaguars out of predictable passing situations and can open up opportunities through the air to exploit.

Brandon Scherff is set to be a free agent this offseason and could be playing elsewhere. Ezra Cleveland is returning, but other guard options on the roster include Blake Hance, who played 97 snaps last season, and Cooper Hodges who played 63 snaps in 2024.

The Jaguars currently have $38.24 million in available cap space, which ranks 17th, according to Over the Cap. Jacksonville does have the ability to create more room if needed.

With help from Pro Football Focus, if the Jaguars are willing to spend at this position, here are the top free agent options at guard this offseason:

Trey Smith, Kansas City​

It’s been reported that the Chiefs will not franchise tag Trey Smith so he will hit free agency and be a highly coveted player for many teams and his projected contract value reflects that.

Smith is still just 25 years old and has been a four-year starter for the Chiefs. He’s steadily graded out well as a run-blocker by PFF’s metrics, and he has allowed just five sacks over the last three seasons combined. Out of 80 eligible guards in 2024, Smith ranked 20th in pass-blocking efficiency.

PFF’s projected contract: 4 years – $82 million

Will Fries, Indianapolis​

Fries is coming off a season-ending lower leg injury that he suffered in Week 5. However, up to that point, he was one of the better guards in football by PFF’s metrics.

Through five games, Fries ranked fourth in run-blocking grade and he was 10th in pass-blocking grade as well. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently reported that Fries is expected to be fully cleared by the time free agency begins and that he’ll “attract serious interest.”

PFF projected contract: 4 years – $57.25 million

Teven Jenkins, Chicago​

Jenkins has missed time with injuries in each of his four NFL seasons. Over the last three seasons, he’s missed 12 total games.

But when on the field, Jenkins has consistently played at a high level. This past season, among all guards, Jenkins ranked 14th in run-blocking grade and he was 20th in pass-blocking efficiency.

PFF projected contract: 3 years – $40 million

Source: https://jaguarswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/20/3-top-free-agent-options-for-jaguars-at-guard/