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[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Exclusive: A Day in the Life of NFL Award-Winning Photographer Logan Bowles

Logan Bowles with rookie Travis Hunter at the Jaguars’ Media Day

Logan Bowles did not have aspirations of becoming a professional photographer when he was younger. With a photography career spanning over a decade, he has created an impressive portfolio, featuring multiple pictures in the NFL Hall of Fame and international publications. Bowles strives to create something bigger than himself and the subject matter of his art, weaving together unspoken stories through his camera lens. The Jacksonville native and lifelong Jaguars fan gave me a glimpse into his world by allowing me to shadow him at the Jaguars’ Media Day, where he discussed his career and fandom.

With players set to arrive around 8:30, it was an early start to the day at EverBank Stadium. After checking in and making our way upstairs, Logan began to work. With over 20 media days under his belt, this is like second nature to him. Due to start times that run from 6 am to 11 am, preparation begins weeks in advance. The league sends a template of poses and the necessary shots to various outlets, including Fox, CBS, and NBC, to create graphics, ads, and social media posts. The template includes a style guide and technical specs. The list and research required for the non-Jacksonville teams is shorter, as Bowles aids in capturing every Jaguars player.

Since it is rare for a media day to go smoothly, he ensures that his cameras, camera batteries, and lenses are ready to go. After camera prep, testing lights and flashes, taping cords down, checking the laptop setup, and syncing both stations, we are prepared for the players to arrive. When center Robert Hainsey steps in front of the camera, the room comes alive. Despite a DJ and players screaming while recording hype videos behind the curtain, Bowles controls his station with prompts such as “smile, cross your arms, uncross your arms.” His research comes in handy when speaking to players who appear uncomfortable in front of the camera.

Asking questions about where they went to school, their families, and tattoos, the ease with which he creates rapport with players is that of a consummate professional. When talking with Logan, he stressed the importance of treating players like normal people and being personable so he can make them look as good as possible. As the day progresses, Bowles has captured pictures of 46 Jaguars, including Trevor Lawrence, Travis Hunter, Foye Oluokun, Josh Hines-Allen, Logan Cooke, and Brian Thomas Jr. Once the players are done, the shots are sorted into specific folders, containing both JPEG and raw images, for the teams and league to edit.

After experiencing his tenth Jaguars Media Day, Logan opened up about the man behind the camera. Despite wanting to be in the stands to offer support, he discovered a love for documenting and telling stories. Drawing inspiration from Duval County, Bowles has photographed nearly every sport imaginable, including football, soccer, basketball, skateboarding, surfing, softball, baseball, and a Call of Duty tournament at Disney. His diverse experience, the importance of continually learning, never settling, and ensuring that the following image is better than the last, along with the knowledge that there is always someone better behind him, prevents him from becoming complacent and pushes the constant evolution of his craft.

While the research and shots requested by the NFL for media day are similar to game day, there are some slight differences. Photographers arrive at the stadium a minimum of three hours early, except for bigger games like Monday Night Football and the Super Bowl, they arrive seven to eight hours early. When asked, the importance of staying locked in, knowing his medium, and making educated guesses was noted. The prep work, consisting of checking in and connecting, is more intense because a picture is transmitted from the camera to the desk in roughly 15 seconds, edited, and then posted within one minute. Images have to be chosen quickly, and the atmosphere can be chaotic. To personally prepare for the potential chaos, Bowles takes a quiet moment for himself, texts his mom, and refrains from eating beforehand.

Bowles never wants to let down the people who took a chance on him. While on the sidelines, Logan remains neutral and does not get emotionally invested. He’s there to capture moments and do a job. He stated that it is not hard to focus, that he was told early on by Paul Figura to disconnect and treat people with respect. It would be disrespectful not to treat his position as a job because it is his career, not a hobby. I asked if there were any misconceptions that he would like to address to those who consider professional photographers hobbyists, and he reiterated that it is a business. The NFL is a billion-dollar business that contracts him to shoot images. No matter the scale of recognition, from airports to trading cards, Logan Bowles thinks it is “always cool” to stumble across his work in the wild.

Atlanta holds a special place for Bowles. His first NFL picture was taken there; he has shot a Super Bowl, a National Championship, an SEC Championship, and the Chick-fil-A Bowl in the stadium. Part of his family lived in the city, and his two Hall of Fame pictures were captured in Atlanta. Logan was at home when he received a phone call from Canton, Ohio, informing him that his picture, “Take Off for Six”, had won the Action Category during the 50th Annual NFL Hall of Fame. To set himself up to catch Julio Jones diving, Bowles kneeled between two people by the pylon. His second Hall of Fame win, “Together As One” from the 2023 season, took home first place in the Feature Category. Like with the first win, he was confident that it was worth waiting to capture that moment because you can tell when something is good.

With the diversity of his craft, Bowles finds himself on the road often. This upcoming football season alone, he is scheduled to shoot roughly 50 games. One week requires him to travel to Baltimore on Thursday, Charlotte on Friday, and Jacksonville on Saturday. How does someone with that schedule manage to relax and achieve a work-life balance? When asked, Logan admitted that while he needs to be better at making that balance, he finds solace in watching sports, the movie Friday, and laughing with his friends. He noted that his favorite off-field moment was a road trip with his friend Travis for the Jaguars’ Divisional Round Playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs in 2023.

While he has photographed every Jaguars draft pick since 2016, Bowles was with Trevor Lawrence the night he was drafted, and flew back to Jacksonville with him on a private jet. Logan mentioned the character that Lawrence displayed and how humble he was. Bowles also had an encounter with Jags legends Fred Taylor and Mark Brunell after taking a red eye to London. The two were standing at the valet service when Logan stumbled out of his taxi. It was the first time he was on a first-name basis with Taylor. The conversation naturally flowed to Jags players past and present that get overlooked during the “greats of the franchise” conversation. Bowles nominated David Garrard, Rashean Mathis, Ross Matiscik, and Logan Cooke as names that are not discussed enough.

Before his mindset shifted from wanting to be a fan in the stands to preferring the sidelines, the lifelong Jaguars fan was a season ticket holder for seven seasons. With the vantage point that few have, he has witnessed the journey of the Jaguars from the franchise’s inception to today, both as a fan and a professional. Logan mentioned how loud The Bank was in 2023 while “Never Scared” by Bone Crusher played during the Wild Card Playoff game against the Chargers, and related that moment to how quiet the stadium was during the 2017 Patriots playoff game. Apparently, security fought each other after Fournette’s touchdown. With honorable mentions to 2010 and 2011, the 1999 season is his favorite to date, despite the Titans stealing the playbook being the Jacksonville conspiracy theory that he believes the most.

The Ron Artest Seattle Seahawks game brought back meaningful late-fall football for Logan. Does he think meaningful football is back? He highlighted the similarities between having real coaches and the opportunity for Brian Thomas Jr. and Travis Hunter to emulate Jimmy Smith and Keenan McCardell, while noting that the vibes within the organization are different. He predicts Jacksonville will win the division.

What’s next for Logan Bowles? What goals does someone set when they are already highly accomplished? He is currently sitting at seven Super Bowls and hopes to reach ten. Logan has aspirations to win first place in the Overall category for the Hall of Fame, shoot the World Cup, the Masters, Ryder Cup, Olympics, and the Jumbo Shrimp. He’ll head back to London in a professional capacity, but regarding the Jaguars playing there every year, he doesn’t think the fans deserve to have a game taken away from them. To those looking to get into sports photography, Bowles suggests asking a lot of questions and being open to critiques. If you want to do it, find a way to make it happen. One Jaguars player stated that Bowles is the best, and I am inclined to agree.

Thank you Kam Nedd and the Jaguars for access to Media Day

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/gener...-fame-award-winning-photographer-logan-bowles

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Reacts Survey Results: Jaguars Fans Speak on the 2025 Preseason

This week, we asked Jacksonville Jaguars fans if the 2025 preseason affected their confidence in the direction of the team one way or the other.

About half of fans didn’t get overly swayed and said their confidence is unchanged.

General manager James Gladstone was asked Wednesday about how cool it is to see his stamp on the roster when he watched the team during the preseason.

“That’s certainly a neat thing, but at the end of the day, I think from my vantage point, it’s time to win some football games. That’s really where my focus has fallen, and that’s where the fulfillment will actually come.”

According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the Jaguars’ win total is set at 7.5 wins. Jacksonville has +270 odds to win the AFC South (Houston is at +115, Indianapolis is at +350, and Tennessee is at +700).

Top comments from Wednesday’s post:

Lake11
First team moved the ball against backups and our backup D kept Miami starters bottled up for a couple drives. One bone-headed call letting Hennigan pass at the end of the Saints tie. All in all, not much to justify moving the needle. A lot of new coaches and schemes, so it coulda been a lot worse I guess. Favored by 3 at home over the lowly Panthers. Sounds about right, unfortunately.
CanAmJagsFan1
This is almost a brand new roster with input from the GM, the coach and the EVP.
I am jaded from the past and hope they do better but I am somewhat skeptical.
JaxSouthsider
If the preseason changed your opinion, I kindly remind you that at this time last year a lot in the fanbase were jacked up because our defense had looked so good in August
the.Panthera.onca
They are who we all thought or expected them to be. Takes more than one offseason to completely overhaul this roster and change the mentality. All I hope to see is improvement from QB1, a comparable season from BTJ and some improvement on the defense, edge rushers and DBs. I don’t expect the world yet, our OL is really weak and the safeties bottom five, easily. So no, this offseason hasn’t raised my confidence, at all. Gearing up for a rough ride.
WestCoastJagwar
If the Jags just don’t just roll the panthers in week 1, I’m going to be concerned. They traded out Thielen and the games after are going to be tough. Hopefully this is like a tune up game in college football.
acedarney
They are who I thought they would be after free agency and the draft. They improved the back half of the roster, and didn’t change much at the top. I think they’ll be a little better on defense and running the ball on offense.
cverbra814
My expectation was that Browns fans will be ecstatic when they get our Top 10 pick next year. Nothing has changed.

I don’t mean to come across as harsh, but I suspect this is a deeply flawed roster whose warts will overwhelm the inexperienced staff rapidly once the season begins.
MCG679
I still expect the Jags to be a near the bottom of the league team.

There’s a SLIM possibility they make the playoffs, but that’s only because someone in the AFC South has to. Not because they’ll be an actual playoff caliber team.
JaxCommenterGuy
I didn’t expect some massive improvement on the field, and didn’t see it.

I also expected our 180 pound unicorn to get dinged up…and he did.

So…neat.

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/nfl-r...ults-jaguars-fans-speak-on-the-2025-preseason

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars Practice Report: Panthers’ Banged Up; Jags Announce Team Captains

The regular season is officially here, with the Jacksonville Jaguars opening the Miller Electric Center practice fields for their first practice of the 2025 regular season. Here are our key takeaways from Monday’s Labor Day practice, Head Coach Liam Coen’s post-practice media availability, and some additional updates from the Carolina Panthers.

Jacksonville Team Captains Announced​

Head Coach Liam Coen kicked off Monday’s post-practice media availability with the announcement of the 2025 Jacksonville Jaguars permanent team captains.

• QB Trevor Lawrence
• C Robert Hainsey
• DE Josh Hines -Allen
• LB Foye Oluokun
• CB Jourdan Lewis
• P Logan Cooke
• The seventh game day captain spot will be a rotating week-by-week role

Hainsey and Lewis being named as captains is notable, with both being new, free-agent additions to the roster. The remaining four captains have all been with the team for multiple seasons. Coen also confirmed that the captain agreement was reached via team vote:

“Yeah, we did a team vote before we left for the mini-break there and the nice thing is you didn’t have to fudge it to get kind of what you wanted. It was pretty clear. Pretty clear based on the votes and the ballots that these were the six guys that got the most. There was a ton of guys that you could’ve bumped up potentially, you just don’t have enough spots, you only have six of them, but it was cool to acknowledge the amount of people that did receive votes throughout the team. That was nice to see, especially some of the guys that may not have ever been voted for in the past that did receive some votes. It kind of shows that those guys are making an impact. It wasn’t hard to get to the six guys.”

Injuries Hit Carolina Hard​

While Coen did not directly provide an update on the injury front for Jacksonville, neither CB Montaric Brown nor OL Wyatt Milum participated in Monday’s practice, with Brown working out on the sidelines. Cole Van Lanen was again a full participant after returning to practice last Thursday. However, the Panthers have not been as fortunate as Carolina traded veteran WR Adam Thielen to the Minnesota Vikings last week, only to then days later place WR Jalen Corker on IR with a quad injury. The trade and subsequent injury opens the door for significant snaps for rookie Tetairoa McMillan, second-year WR Xavier Legette, and recently re-signed veteran WR Hunter Renfrow. Coach Coen touched on the Panthers’ wide receiver room’s recent shakeup:

“I think T-Mac being a rookie, we know we liked him coming out of the draft, we know what some of those traits are that he can do with some of the one-on-one opportunities as well. And then Legette can really run. Big, physical receiver. Hunter Renfrow has won in the slot here for years. What does that look like? I think they’ll probably remain within what they do. I don’t know if it’ll drastically change how they operate. Maybe we’ll see a little bit more 12, 13 [personnel], just for depth reasons alone, for sure. So, I don’t think it’ll drastically change things for us, but Coker is a good player. He did a lot for them in terms of the run game, blocking, but also, he has some wiggle and can run. Coker and Hunter are different players. I think that’s probably where you’ll see a little bit of a different usage out of those players that will and can affect how we play a little bit, but I’m not sure it’ll have a huge, drastic issue on the gameplan.”

Losing multiple pass catchers in less than five days this close to the start of the regular season is normally a big loss. However, that’s not the end of the injury list for Carolina. Left tackle Ikem Ekwinu also had an appendectomy last week. His healing status is currently up in the air, per Panthers’ Head Coach Dave Canales:

“He had appendicitis. He wasn’t feeling good, and then ultimately went to the hospital and they said, ‘We’ve got to do surgery here. We have to remove this.’ So he had his appendix removed. He’s day-to-day. We’ve seen these things turn around in a little over a week — they can be longer. It just depends on each individual body, how you respond to the surgery, how your body heals the right way.”

Ikem Ekwonu gives details about his recovery process from surgery to remove his appendix recently.#Panthers #NFL pic.twitter.com/ZnQvRLWkC2

— Kevin Tolbert (@livingktstyle) September 1, 2025

Canales advised that the team will consider Ekwonu as “day-to-day” up to gameday. “That’s something that we’re gonna have to keep our eye on as we go,” Canales stated. If Ekwonu is unable to go, Yosh Nijman would be the likely candidate to fill in at left tackle. Nijman, has 25 career starts, with three coming in 2024.

A History with Carolina​

Jacksonville will be opening the 2025 regular season with somewhat of a foreign opponent, as Jacksonville has only faced Carolina eight times, with the series tied 4 to 4. However, Coen faced the in-division Panthers twice while with the 2024 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which he discussed:

“We definitely go back and look (at the Panthers’ defense) because I don’t think the overall structure will change. I do believe that we will see some unscouted looks for sure whether it’s a personnel grouping or whether it’s a blitz or coverage or something along those lines. I don’t think they probably altered their entire structure, so yeah, you definitely go back and look at what was successful twice last year playing those guys. What fits, what we’ve done well up to this point and we can kind of use those schemes or concepts to our advantage, but they’ve definitely added some players via pro-free agency and the draft as well. So, you’re just curious to see maybe how they’re going to utilize those players, if that impacts and effects their defensive structure at all.”

Coen’s Buccaneers went 2 and 0 versus the 2024 Panthers, winning a week 13 26-23 overtime thriller in their first matchup before a 48-14 week 17 Tampa Bay demolition over the then three-win Panthers. While Coen may be able to glean a few items from Carolina’s 2024 game film, Coen also believed Carolina would attempt to do the same in reviewing the prior year’s matchups with the Bucs.

“I would think that they probably have an idea of watching the Tampa stuff that it’s probably not going to go too far off of that. It’s just more, ok, what personnel groupings are we going to major in, especially early on in the season in game one. What that looks like for us. And then the personnel is obviously a little bit different. I think that both teams are able to go and look at some of the stuff from last year and be able to use that, either to the advantage or man this is something that we didn’t do well that they took advantage of that we need to improve upon so that it doesn’t happen again.”

Undecided on if Hunter will start​

Rookie WR/CB Travis Hunter, in the early portions of training camp, participated on both sides of the ball religiously, before missing he final two preseason games and was limited in multiple practices after sustaining an upper-body injury on August 14th. While Coen previously advised that the team was treating the injury cautiously and did not want to risk Hunter further aggravating the issue, general manager James Gladstone confirmed on Wednesday that Hunter was full go on the Miller Electric Fields. So, while we know that Hunter will play and will likely not be medically limited, the team is still working through the details to confirm if the Heisman Trophy winner will start on both sides of the ball.

“We’re still working through it right now. He obviously missed a lot of time there that can impact playing anybody, nonetheless a rookie that misses quite a bit of time so what that usage looks like we’re still working through.”

The matchup between Hunter and McMillan will surely be one to watch.

Travis Hunter. TMAC Talks Playing Against #12 in Season Opener

"You know we battled since HS. So it's gonna be a fun one, just playing at 3 different levels. Come Saturday we'll see what happens" https://t.co/MszJDOhw8i pic.twitter.com/WITrZ3NGtl

— JaKi (@JaKiTruth) September 1, 2025

For those interested, the full media availability can be watched here.

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...anthers-banged-up-jags-announce-team-captains

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars power rankings roundup before the 2025 season

To get a feel for how the Jacksonville Jaguars are viewed around the league, here’s a look at a handful of national media power rankings.

Yahoo Sports: 15​

From Frank Schwab:

Travis Hunter got banged up before the preseason finale but maybe that’s a good thing. He’ll be used plenty during the season, and missing a bit of time in August isn’t bad. Hunter is going to be a big story in September as he likely plays offense and defense.

CBS Sports: 17​

From Pete Prisco:

The new regime has done a nice job with Trevor Lawrence so far. But this is a major year for him to prove many of the doubters wrong. If not, this team has big problems.

USA Today: 20​

From Nate Davis:

Are we already souring on the grand Travis Hunter experiment after he was sideswiped by injury before the games that count have even started? Will be interesting to see how many snaps he plays Sunday.

NFL.com: 23​

From Eric Edholm:

The Jaguars are suddenly a must-watch team, with Travis Hunter joining Brian Thomas Jr. to form one of the more explosive young WR duos in the league. Hunter also plays defense, as you might have read. And while, yes, of course I want to see how Liam Coen handles what will be one of the league’s most fascinating experiments in a while, that’s not the only thing on Coen’s to-do list. The first-year head coach was also brought in to salvage Trevor Lawrence and reshape this offense in his vision, getting out of it what Doug Pederson could not over the past few years. The schedule lays out nicely, and if the Jaguars’ defense can do a better job of slowing down opponents’ aerial games after finishing 32nd in pass defense in 2024, they might be sneaky wild-card candidates.

The Ringer: 23​

From Diante Lee:

Rookie receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter will draw more casual fans to turn on Jaguars games, but the actual story of the team still revolves around quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Whatever goodwill Lawrence still had going into last season evaporated after his awful start, and now he needs to show that he can once again lead an efficient offense, as he did a few years ago.

Lawrence took a big step back in his accuracy, his feel for pressure, and his ability to create out of structure. New head coach Liam Coen did an excellent job of improving each of those things with Baker Mayfield in Tampa Bay last season, and Mayfield is a much less physically gifted passer than Lawrence. If we see similar improvements from Lawrence this season, I might be willing to buy back in on the Jags.

Sports Illustrated: 24​

From Conor Orr:

The Jaguars are either going to be a breath of fresh air with youth dotting every corner of this facility in major decision-making positions, or a textbook example of how to bungle a frenzied hiring process, first by sticking with embattled GM Trent Baalke, costing the team interviews with top candidates, and then making a hard right turn at the last moment. I hope for the latter, because this team has so many exciting players that haven’t gotten the opportunity to break out … yet.

Bleacher Report: 24​

From Gary Davenport:

There’s a new head coach in Jacksonville in Liam Coen. A wildly exciting rookie wide receiver/cornerback in Travis Hunter. But make no mistake, the Jaguars will go as far in 2025 as their highest-paid player takes them. After signing a five-year, $275 million extension last year, Lawrence suffered through a miserable season. The fifth-year veteran missed seven games, barely cleared 2,000 passing yards and threw just 11 touchdown passes.

The Athletic: 25​

From Josh Kendall:

Jacksonville is going to lean into Travis Hunter’s two-way potential. Hunter played 11 snaps on offense and eight on defense in his only preseason game, and his snaps have been basically even on offense and defense in practice. The No. 2 pick missed the second preseason game due to an upper-body injury but is expected to be full speed Sunday, wherever he happens to be lined up.

ESPN: 27​

From Mike Clay:

The Jaguars drafted one of the league’s most interesting players in Travis Hunter, but the rookie will be hard-pressed to make up for the voids this roster has on both sides of the ball. Little (no pun intended, Walker Little ) was done to address perhaps the league’s shakiest offensive line, which puts added pressure on quarterback Trevor Lawrence under new coach Liam Coen. The defense should be solid, with edge Josh Hines- Allen, LB Foyesade Oluokun and CB Tyson Campbell among the impact players.

Pro Football Talk: 28​

From Mike Florio:

It all comes down to whether Trevor Lawrence can become what, after two seasons, it seemed like he was starting to be.

Where would you rank the team, Jaguars fans? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...power-rankings-roundup-before-the-2025-season

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Revealing the Jacksonville Jaguars’ All-Time Team as Voted on by Fans

The Jacksonville Jaguars are just a few days away from the start of their 31st season as an NFL franchise.

To commemorate their history, we asked for your help to name the team’s greatest players at every position.

Here are the final results.

Offense​

• Quarterback: Mark Brunell (1995-03)
• Running back: Fred Taylor (1998-08)
• Wide receivers: Jimmy Smith (1995-05), Keenan McCardell (1996-01), Brian Thomas Jr. (2024-present)
• Tight end: Marcedes Lewis (2006-17)
• Offensive tackles: Tony Boselli (1995-01), Leon Searcy (1996-99)
• Interior offensive line: Vince Manuwai (2003-10), Brad Meester (2000-13), Chris Naeole (2002-07)

Defense​

• Defensive ends: Tony Brackens (1996-03), Josh Hines-Allen (2019-present)
• Defensive tackles: John Henderson (2002-09), Marcus Stroud (2001-07)
• Linebackers: Daryl Smith (2004-12), Paul Posluszny (2011-17)
• Cornerbacks: Rashean Mathis (2003-12), Jalen Ramsey (2016-19), Aaron Beasley (1996-01)
• Safeties: Donovin Darius (1998-06), Tashaun Gipson (2016-18)

Special Teams​

• Kicker: Josh Scobee (2004-14)
• Punter: Logan Cooke (2018-present)
• Long snapper: Ross Matiscik (2020-present)
• Return specialist: Jamal Agnew (2021-23)

Let us know what you’re surprised by, who got snubbed, and the rest of your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...lle-jaguars-all-time-team-as-voted-on-by-fans

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars Reacts Survey: What are you watching for in Week 1?

Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen looks on during an NFL training camp session at the Miller Electric Center, Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla.

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Jaguars fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Jaguars fans — are you confident the team is headed in the right direction?

And which storyline are you most looking forward to in Week 1?

On Monday, Liam Coen spoke about Sunday being his first game as an NFL head coach.

“Obviously you’ve done so much work to get to this point, and then now you’re into, the results truly matter. We’ve talked so much about the process that drives results, that’s got us to this point. We can’t lose sight of that process, and we used to kind of talk about process over results, well, those results matter. So, the process in which we get to the games and the way that we gameplan, the way that we operate throughout the week, the way that we communicate on gameday, that’s the part that you’re kind of anxious to see how we handle a true game.”

“You’re definitely anxious as a head coach to kind of get the ball kicked off and get into it. So, you’re really just more so anxious and excited to see how the guys go out and play. You want to see perfect football, but we all know, it’s football, it’s not perfect. It’s an imperfect game and you’re striving for perfection, which is probably the chase obviously. We’re all excited. I’m excited to kind of get in that stadium and see how much we can pack it.”

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...ts-survey-what-are-you-watching-for-in-week-1

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Power ranking the coolest Jaguars gear on Homage

Pay homage to the history of the Jacksonville Jaguars with this heavyweight satin jacket.

If you don’t have any Homage products in your closet, you’re missing out. Their sports apparel is officially licensed, well-designed, and above all, SUPER comfortable.

Homage recently released a pair of products that are essential for chilly gamedays: a pullover jacket and a heavyweight satin jacket.

The Starter x Homage pullover is a stitched, color-blocked time capsule of team loyalty. Crafted in 100% nylon Oxford with a vintage crinkle finish, these half-zip pullovers combine Starter’s iconic sportswear design with Homage’s deep respect for team identity. Every detail is designed to honor the golden era of NFL fan gear… color blocking, twill appliqué wordmarks, oversized back logos, and that embroidered Starter star… This is the real stuff. The kind of jacket your older brother never let you borrow. The one with the big patch. The bold front. The crackle that meant you were ready for kickoff.

The Starter satin jacket rose to fame in the 1980s. Bright, bold, and impossible to ignore, it quickly became the crown jewel of fan gear. Worn by coaches under stadium lights, players post-game, and fans everywhere. In the ‘90s, it crossed over. From sportswear to streetwear. Starter is a signal. Of team pride. Of cultural clout. Of belonging to something bigger than yourself. The HOMAGE x Starter Satin Jacket is our tribute to an era. That feeling. That statement piece that always meant more than just style. It’s made for cold games and hot takes.

These items are immediately some of the best available for Jaguars fans on Homage.com.

Here’s a quick list of my favorite apparel they have in stock:

1. HOMAGE X Starter Jaguars Heavyweight Satin Jacket
2. HOMAGE X Starter Jaguars Pullover Jacket
3. NFL Jam Jaguars Travis Hunter T-Shirt
4. Jacksonville Jaguars Victory Monday Hoodie
5. NFL Blitz Jaguars Trevor Lawrence T-Shirt

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/general/76695/power-ranking-the-coolest-jaguars-gear-on-homage

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars vs Panthers Key Matchups: Pro Bowlers set to lock Horns

The Jacksonville Jaguars welcome the Carolina Panthers to EverBank Stadium on Sunday as the 2025 NFL season gets underway. Here are three key battles to keep an eye on:

Brian Thomas vs Jaycee Horn​

Brian Thomas Jr. posted a preposterous 6.71 yards per route run on in-breakers last year

That ranked 1st among 72 WRs with 70+ such routes… but he only ranked 20th in targets

More on how Thomas isn’t close to his ceiling: https://t.co/z4HuQa7b2H pic.twitter.com/YxCj8AIZml

— Gus Logue (@gus_logue) September 2, 2025

You can tell real football has returned! Preseason whetted the appetite, but now is when results really matter, and as such we can have much more confidence in who we see on the field. And as it’s Week 1, we’re going to have a heavy focus on the star players on both sides of the ball…

After an incredible college career that finished with him hoisting the Heisman Trophy in New York, there are big expectations for Travis Hunter, and no doubt he’ll have the cameras on him for his NFL debut. But the best matchup to be found involving the Jaguars’ offense will be second year receiver Brian Thomas going up against Jaycee Horn. Thomas took just one season to stake his claim as one of the top ten pass catchers in the league, posting nearly 1,300 yards and 10 TD’s as he developed a strong chemistry with Trevor Lawrence. With some significant change at the position and Hunter making the step up, there’s a heap of pressure on Thomas to replicate a 2024 season that saw him earn All-Rookie and Pro Bowl honors.

He starts with a tough task. Despite some lean years in Charlotte, Jaycee Horn has shined for the Panthers. 2024 was his best season to date, seeing Horn join Thomas at the Pro Bowl after registering an impressive 68 tackles and 13 pass breakups in 15 games. Carolina are undergoing something of a transformation as they try and find their identity, but showed just how much they valued their star quarterback by tying him down to a 4 year, $100m deal back in March. Horn is the leader of a young secondary with similar leadership responsibilities to Thomas, and whoever comes out on top of this battle likely swings the probability of a victory in their team’s favor on Sunday.

Chuba Hubbard vs Foye Oluokun​

PSA: Chuba Hubbard is the heart and soul of the offense. It’s easy to forget. Especially with all the WR talk. The stats don’t lie. The film doesn’t lie. The practice habits are ungodly.

Here’s my favorite play from 30 last year. Doesn’t get better.

pic.twitter.com/9MYqZP3O4W

— John Ellis (@1PantherPlace) August 27, 2025

Panthers Head Coach Dave Canales and his offensive coordinator Brad Idzik worked tirelessly to change the culture of the Panthers in 2024, the first season of their reign in Carolina. And by the end of the season, this Panthers offense was quietly one of the most potent in the NFL. There are still some question marks about the passing game, with Bryce Love still to win over some doubters; but this unit succeeds when they are able to run the football, and they lean heavily on Chuba Hubbard to do just that.

After an impressive college career at Oklahoma State, Hubbard flew under the radar in the 2021 NFL Draft, finally coming off the board in the 4th round. He was an effective contributor to the Panthers his first three years in the league, but his production EXPLODED in 2024 when Canales entered the building; Hubbard had the best year of his pro career, enjoying nearly 1,200 rushing yards and 10 TD’s at an impressive 4.8 yards per carry. Reliable out of the backfield as a receiving option too, Hubbard has evolved into one of the more dangerous ball carriers in the league with a 3-down game set to test the Jaguars on Sunday.

There have been questions levelled at Jacksonville’s linebacker corps the past twelve months, some with merit. But nobody can suggest that Foye Oluokun hasn’t pulled his weight since coming to the team from the Atlanta Falcons in 2022. In the past five years alone, Olukon has made an astonishing 774 tackles, never once falling below 100 a season (and in some cases pushing 200, leading the league in 2022 and 2023). Last year, he missed four games with a foot injury but still cleared 100 takedowns, showing his value to the team and justifying the four year, $45m deal he signed prior to the season. If Foye can keep Hubbard quiet and put the pressure on Young to win the game for the Panthers, the Jags will feel confident of a Week 1 win.

Josh Hines-Allen vs Brady Christensen?​

Dave Canales said #Panthers left tackle Ikem Ekwonu is day to day, after an emergency appendectomy last week.

Ekwonu was working off to the side during practice today. @wsoctv pic.twitter.com/YeqBzyjoK3

— DaShawn Brown (@DaShawnWSOC9) September 1, 2025

The news that starting left tackle Ikem Ekwonu has undergone emergency appendectomy surgery should be of interest to Jags fans. The fourth year pro has been a mainstay on the blindside for the Panthers since being taken in the first round in 2022. As a rookie, Ekwonu started all 17 games for Carolina and allowed the fewest pressures by any rookie that season. Since then Ekwonu has been a rock on the offensive line, with 49 starts in three years. But his recent surgery means the Panthers have listed him as ‘day to day’ heading into Sunday’s clash. Considering it’s been less than seven days since surgery, it’s unsurprising to hear Ekwonu hasn’t trained at all this week, and a remarkable recovery would be required to see him suit up against the Jags.

That suggests that Brady Christensen is likely to step in. Christensen, who has spent all his career with the Panthers, has seen plenty of action his four years in the league. But the former BYU lineman hasn’t been able to lock down a starting job, and defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero seems to prefer him inside at left guard. Not the greatest of situations when you’re going up against a Pro Bowl edge rusher with 53 sacks to his name…

Josh Hines-Allen saw a regression in his numbers last year after an incredible 2023 campaign saw him set the franchise record for sacks in a season (17.5). That production earned him a five year, $150m contract, and he will be chomping at the bit to hit those sorts of highs in black and teal once more. Sunday’s battle against Christensen could be a real advantage for the Jaguars, and help their star pass rusher get the 2025 season off to a flying start.

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...rs-key-matchups-pro-bowlers-set-to-lock-horns

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Playoffs?! Jaguars 2025 Record Prediction

The NFL draft and free agency are in the books. The offseason is complete. In the immortal words of Gus Bradley, it’s built.” With the season set to kick off on Sunday, let’s break down how the Jacksonville Jaguars will perform in 2025.

Here’s how I forecast Liam Coen’s inaugural season to go in Jacksonville.

Game by game prediction:​

️ Week 1 vs. Carolina Panthers (Home)

While I expect that Carolina may be somewhat improved under Dave Caneles in 2025, I predict a strong opening day showing from Coen’s roster to kick off his tenure. While Carolina will be a reasonably stout test for the offensive line (against Derrick Brown and Bobby Brown), Coen’s offense will no doubt find space to maneuver against this Panther’s defense. Starting off strong.

Prediction: Win (1–0)

️ Week 2 at Cincinnati Bengals

Jacksonville’s first tough matchup of the season will come on the road against the Bengals in what I expect to be a lower-scoring affair. Joe Burrow historically has played down to the level of his competition early into the season, so this is in no way an impossible game for Jacksonville to steal. However, the offensive firepower of Jamar Chase and Tee Higgins, plus the end of Trey Hendrickson’s holdout spell trouble from my perspective. The Jaguars will have a prime opportunity to earn this one on the field, turning doubters into early believers.

Prediction: Loss (1–1)

️ Week 3 vs. Houston Texans (Home)

Houston will likely be playing without their starting running back Joe Mixon, wide receiver Tank Dell, and possibly Christian Kirk for their week three matchup. With Houston’s already questionable offseason decisions at offensive line, this is another prime opportunity for Jacksonville to steal a game at home. However, this victory is an all-important season opener into AFC South play. Fortune favors the healthy. Jags win.

Prediction: Win (2–1; 1-0 in the AFC South)

Week 4 at San Francisco 49ers

In what I expect to be a higher-scoring affair, the Jaguars may have a tough time heading from the East to the West Coast in this one. Even with their offseason losses on defense, it’s hard to vote against Kyle Shannahan as long as Christian McCaffrey is injury-free. With Brandon Aiyuk also on the PUP List, however, the Jaguars could have a puncher’s chance in California.

Prediction: Loss (2–2)

️ Week 5 vs. Kansas City Chiefs (Monday Night Football at Home)

The Jaguars, in primetime?! This team will have to prove that the long-suffering curse has been lifted before I believe it blindly. I see this one being an ugly, low scoring game resulting in another Kansas City victory. That’s the script until it’s proven otherwise.

Prediction: Loss (2–3)

️ Week 6 vs. Seattle Seahawks (Home)

It seems that most in Duval County have marked this matchup as an automatic win, due to Seattle’s historic struggles traveling coast to coast. While I may personally still be unsure on Klint Kubiak as an OC, Sam Darnold plus a few weapons in Cooper Kupp, Jaxon Smith-Nijigba, and Kenneth Walker III makes this matchup more of a pick-em in my book. This may end up as a higher scoring game, but I truly would not be shocked if Jacksonville were to miss out on this prime opportunity to be .500. I predict that Jacksonville loses this one that they should win, while working through being consistent early on.

Prediction: Loss (2–4)

️ Week 7 vs. Los Angeles Rams (London)

Family reunion in the UK! James Gladstone and General Manager Liam Coen face off against their former franchise. The students face the teachers in McVay and Sneed. While Jacksonville is in the early phases of building their own “LA East,“ the already built version will be on display.

Prediction: Loss (2–5)

️ Week 8: Bye Week

With the easier portion of their schedule to come, the Jaguars take their mid-season break to regroup and prepare for the list of away games to come. Jacksonville fans and media will without a doubt take the 2-5 bye week record in stride.

️ Week 9 at Las Vegas Raiders

With both teams coming off from their bye weeks, I see this Jaguars offense firing on all cylinders in this one. Maxx Crosby, Geno Smith, Brock Bowers, and Ashton Jeanty will undoubtedly make their plays too. But limited playmakers in the Vegas secondary and receiving core will leave the Raiders looking for answers in this one. I think the Jags score 30 or more, flying home with a win.

Prediction: Win (3–5)

️ Week 10 at Houston Texans

For the first time since 2017, the Jaguars will sweep the Texans. Houston will make this one closer than their week three matchup, now with a healthier roster. However, it’s not enough as Jacksonville pulls away to 2 and 0 in AFC South play, with both victories coming from the reigning AFC South Champions.

Prediction: Win (4–5; 2-0 in the AFC South)

️ Week 11 vs. Los Angeles Chargers (Home)

The Jaguars smell blood in the water. With the season seemingly slipping away from them before the bye, now the playoffs and potentially the AFC South division all seem to be within reach. Confidence breeds success, and the Jaguars upset the Chargers at home in a lower scoring matchup.

Prediction: Win (5–5)

️ Week 12 at Arizona Cardinals

The music stops as Jacksonville’s second half winning streak ends at three after the bye. The Cardinals are a very dangerous team, especially with Jacksonville traveling out West, coast to coast. I expect a high-scoring game with Jacksonville struggling to contain the scrambles of Kyler Murray and James Conner in the run-pass option game. The Zay Jones and Calais Campbell reunion game doesn’t fall Jacksonville’s’ way.

Prediction: Loss (5–6)

️ Week 13 at Tennessee Titans

Tennessee looks to be building a capable roster for the future. But this simply isn’t their week. While Cam Ward may eventually be able to lift up a subpar roster, 2025 is not that time. The Jaguars control this one from start to finish.

Prediction: Win (6–6; 3-0 in the AFC South)

️ Week 14 vs. Indianapolis Colts (Home)

Daniel Jones versus Jacksonville in Duval. While Jones did upset Jacksonville in 2022, this isn’t that roster or staff. I expect history not to repeat itself (other than the Colts continuing to lose in Jacksonville).

Prediction: Win (7–6; 4-0 in the AFC South)

️ Week 15 vs. New York Jets (Home)

Prediction: Win (8–6)

The Jacksonville faithful begin to have legitimate playoff conversations as Jacksonville wins the matchups they are supposed to, dominating the Jets at EverBank. The Justin Fields/Tyrod Taylor quarterback room continues to limit the Jets in this lower-scoring Jacksonville win.

Prediction: Win (8–6; 4-0 in the AFC South)

️ Week 16 at Denver Broncos

Jacksonville, coming off a highpoint in the season is upset by the physical Broncos defense. Back-to-back matchups against aggressive front sevens with sticky secondaries finally takes its’ toll in Denver. While Jacksonville, in no way, should be automatically counted out, Denver just has “trap-game” written all over it for me.

Prediction: Loss (8–7)

️ Week 17 at Indianapolis Colts

I expect that the Colts will be out of playoff contention at this time, evaluating 2026 quarterback prospects. Jacksonville understands the assignment, securing the rare victory in Indianapolis, locking in their opportunity to secure the division in week 18.

Prediction: Win (9–7; 5-0 in the AFC South)

️ Week 18 vs. Tennessee Titans (Home)

In a matchup for the soul of the AFC South (and Jacksonville’s playoff chances), the Jaguars avoid the Titan’s attempt to spoil their hopes, in dominant fashion. The Jaguars sweep the Titans for the third time in the past four years and become the first team to go 6-0 in AFC South play since the 2014 Andrew Luck-led Indianapolis Colts.

Prediction: Win

Final Regular Season Record: 10–7 and 6-0 in AFC South play

So, playoffs? Absolutely. I believe that the 2025 Jacksonville Jaguars will reclaim their AFC South Division crown from a rebuilding Houston Texans offense with major early season questions at offensive line, injuries at running back (Joe Mixon), and receiver (Christian Kirk and Tank Dell), and running a new offensive scheme.

With a weaker 2025 AFC South, the Jaguars are in prime position to secure a division crown with just ten wins. Nine wins could possibly even do the trick, with things going their way. I absolutely expect this team to win a game or two unexpectedly, (IE: the Bengals matchup, who historically start slow) while surprisingly losing against a team who may be unexpectedly good (maybe the Cardinals). But, in whole, I expect the better coached and better assembled rosters to rise to the top more often than not. I believe this roster, while not good enough to consistently challenge those at the top of the NFL world – IE: the Eagles, Lions, Bills etc – it is good enough, and possibly explosive enough to play with most on a week in and week out basis.

But what say you, BigCatCountry? Where would you predict differently? Playoffs, or bust? Let us know in the comments below!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/nfl-playoffs/76717/playoffs-jaguars-2025-record-prediction

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars vs Panthers: Staff roundtable and game picks for Week 1

Welcome to Big Cat Country’s staff roundtable! Today, we’re previewing Week 1’s matchup between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Carolina Panthers at EverBank Stadium.

What is the biggest question about the Jaguars you want to have answered after Week 1?

Dillon Appleman: Who is going to separate themselves from the pack in a crowded running back room? There is still a lot of uncertainty about what the usage will look like among the Jaguars’ running backs. It feels like the plan is for Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby to split most of the work, but it’s possible we see rookies Bhayshul Tuten or LeQuint Allen Jr. get some touches as well. No matter the splits, Week 1 is an opportunity for somebody to prove they deserve more of a workload going forward.

Travis Holmes: The Jaguars recently named center Robert Hainsey as a team captain for the 2025 season. After wrapping up a preseason where the Jacksonville offense never faced a starting defensive unit, I’m interested in seeing how Hainsey performs this week against nose tackle Bobby Brown III, the dominant run-stopping plug in the middle of Carolina’s defense. Hainsey was signed in Jacksonville after losing his starting role in Tampa Bay, primarily due to struggles in dealing with the more powerful DTs, so this should be a great opening test for the newly designated captain.

Gus Logue: What will Anthony Campanile’s defense look like? According to Daniel Griffis of Action News Jax, the 2024 Jaguars ranked top-three in man coverage rate and press coverage rate, and bottom-three in blitz rate and stunt rate. Ryan Nielsen deployed a predictable, vanilla scheme. Expect Campanile to do a complete 180 and turn up the heat by sending extra rushers and disguising zone coverages.

Henry Zimmer: I think in Week 1 I would just like to see a clean game from Trevor Lawrence. He looked great in the preseason but that was limited. Now it’s time to see it in full action and all signs are pointing to yielding great things. The Panthers aren’t world beaters, but it would be a great sign heading into Cincinnati if Lawrence played a clean game.

If you could ‘steal’ a player from the Panthers and place them on the Jaguars’ roster, who would it be?

Dillon: I’m taking the Panthers’ shiny new free agency addition, Tre’von Moehrig. The veteran safety would instantly provide this defense with a tone-setter on the backend that they do not currently have. Moehrig’s 5 TFLs last year are equal to the entire Jaguars safety depth’s total in 2024, which goes to show how impactful he is when getting downhill. That type of player has been missing for the Jacksonville secondary for a while.

Travis: I think Jacksonville would thrive with a player like Tre’von Moehrig roaming the Jaguars’ secondary. The recently signed Moehrig came over from Las Vegas, where he rarely missed tackles, ranking sixth among safeties in PFF run defense grade (87.5). Despite the Raiders’ pass rush taking a hit and the defense losing half of their starters in the second half of the season, Moehrig’s coverage grades on passes over 3 seconds (62.9) and in the slot (64.2) both remained above average. With Jacksonville’s looming questions at the safety positions currently filled by Eric Murray and Andrew Wingard, Moehrig would provide slightly more stability.

Gus: There are a few tempting options on Carolina’s defensive roster, but I’d address perhaps the Jaguars’ biggest weakness by nabbing right guard Robert Hunt. The five-year NFL veteran finished second in ESPN’s run block win rate among interior linemen last season, and he enters 2025 as Brandon Thorn’s 10th-ranked right guard. He’d be a huge boost for Liam Coen’s run game.

Henry: Derrick Brown would be at the top of my list. As good as DaVon Hamilton or even Arik Armstead can be, having a guy like Brown would level up this defense significantly. Jaycee Horn also couldn’t hurt.

Who will be the biggest X-factor on Sunday?

Dillon: Josh Hines-Allen. With the status of Panthers starting left tackle Ikem Ekwonu in question (appendectomy), the Jags’ star pass rusher could be in for a huge day. Not to mention the added incentive of JHA being just 2.5 sacks away from setting the franchise’s all-time sack record.

Travis: Carolina defensive end Derrick Brown is the player to watch from my perspective. Brown is easily the best player on the Panthers’ roster. The last time he was healthy for the season, he collected over 100 tackles, setting an NFL record for the position. In 2023, he led all interior defenders in defensive stops and solo tackles, and PFF had his run-defense grade at 90.0 in that Pro Bowl season. Sliding him back in next to Bobby Brown III could be a challenge for the Jaguars’ offensive line. I think the fans in Duval could be sleeping on that improvement over the Panthers’ 2024 run defense results.

Gus: Tetairoa McMillan. With Adam Thielen shipped to Minnesota and Jalen Coker placed on injured reserve, the Panthers suddenly have a shallow receiver room behind their eighth overall draft pick. The Jaguars should put all their efforts into slowing McMillan because the Panthers don’t have any other notable threats. I don’t see Carolina walking out of the Bank with a win unless their rookie receiver makes an instant impact.

Henry: The biggest X-Factor could be Bryce Young. Much like Lawrence, all signs are pointing up for Young and he has the receivers to help him out. If he plays well, and the Jags defense reverts to its old ways, it could be a long day for Jacksonville and a big day for the former Heisman winner.

Final score prediction?

Dillon: Jaguars 27, Panthers 21

Travis: Jaguars 27, Panthers 23

Gus: Jaguars 30, Panthers 24

Henry: Jaguars 24, Panthers 17

What are your Week 1 predictions, Jaguars fans? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...rs-staff-roundtable-and-game-picks-for-week-1

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

5 Questions with Cat Scratch Reader: What we learned about the Panthers

As the Jacksonville Jaguars prepare to play the Carolina Panthers in Week 1, we sat down with Walker Clement of Cat Scratch Reader to learn more about the opposing side.

Question 1: What does a successful 2025 season look like for the Panthers, and how much of it has to do with quarterback Bryce Young?

A lot of fans have said six wins would be a successful season. That’s a step up from last year and more than we’ve seen from a full-time head coach since 2018. I don’t think that’s enough. We’re tired of losing and I think 11 losses would be too heavy. Seven to nine wins, Young continuing on his progress at the end of last season, and more competitive losses than blowouts are the bar for a successful season. An opening day win wouldn’t hurt, either.

Question 2: Carolina got a fourth-round pick by trading 35-year-old Adam Thielen to Minnesota. It’s a clear on-paper win, but was it worth losing Young’s most trusted target?

It’s a harder trade to judge now that we lost his second-most reliable target, second year receiver Jalen Coker, to a quad injury for 4-6 weeks. Long story short, we’re going to have to see how Xavier Legette, Tetairoa McMillan, and Hunter Renfrow step up. They’re all either young, new to the team, or both. There’s a lot of chemistry there that we haven’t really seen on the field, good or bad.

Long story long, the last time the Panthers opened at Jacksonville, in 2015, they went to the Super Bowl. Cam Newton lost his leading receiver and favorite target from 2014, Kelvin Benjamin, right before the start of the season. He leveled up and dragged a corps of no-name receivers and an aged Jerricho Cotchery to a dominant 15-1 regular season record. Once is history, but if Young can do it again then it becomes a tradition. These are the kinds of realistic expectations that we’re placing on the shoulders of our quarterback.

Question 3: How concerning are the injuries to WR Jalen Coker (on injured reserve) and OT Ikem Ekwonu (in danger of missing Week 1)?

Coker is on IR, as linked above, and will miss a minimum of four weeks. Ekwonu is a bigger question. He hasn’t practiced this week (as of Wednesday) and is not yet two weeks removed from an emergency appendectomy. Even laparoscopically, that’s still major abdominal surgery with risks of complications (and further time lost) if he rushes back to the field. My expectation is that we’ll see Brady Christensen, an extremely capable backup, fill in at left tackle. Yosh Nijman, also a capable backup, is the other option. You can read more on the decision the Panthers may have to make at left tackle here.

Question 4: Who’s an under-the-radar player that Jaguars fans should watch out for in this game?

It’s weird to call a Pro Bowl player “under-the-radar” but I have to go with Derrick Brown here. I personally think the 27-year-old defensive tackle/defensive end is capable of having an All-Pro year. However, playing often on the interior and having missed the entire 2024 season, Brown’s name may not be the most familiar to folks outside of the Carolinas. He is an incredibly disruptive player. He may not get every sack, but look for him to be involved in most of them and in most plays that get blown up behind the line of scrimmage.

On offense, fans have high hopes for second-year tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders. He flashed some explosive skills last season before hitting the rookie wall. Tight ends are not heavily featured in Dave Canales’ offense, but targets with proven chemistry with Young are also few and far between. We’re all curious to see how that dynamic plays out.

Question 5: Do you expect the Panthers to cover as 3.5-point underdogs, and do you have a favorite player prop for the game?

I think the Panthers cover. If I were even a smidge more optimistic by nature then I would call for them to outright win, but let’s not go that far today. This team is too young to be predictable, which is why I’m also staying away from player props until we have more data. Well, that, and as one of our commenters keeps pointing out: our mascot is literally a black cat. It’s bad luck to make assumptions about this team.

Thanks to Walker for taking the time to answer our questions!

What are your thoughts on Week 1’s matchup, Jaguars fans? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...tch-reader-what-we-learned-about-the-panthers

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Reacts Survey Results: What Jaguars fans are watching for in Week 1

This week, we asked Jacksonville Jaguars fans which storyline they’re most looking forward to ahead of the season opener against Carolina.

40% of fans are eager to watch the team play for the first time under Liam Coen, who’s entering his debut season as an NFL head coach.

As for the confidence survey, a whopping 84% of fans are confident in the direction of the team.

That number was all the way down at 7% immediately following the 2024 season.

“There’s nothing like it,” Trevor Lawrence said Wednesday of his excitement for the season opener. “First game of the year, obviously. Even the preseason games, I still get the little butterflies before you go out because it still means something, but this is the first one that counts. It does have a different feel to it.”

“You obviously have a whole gameplan, you put in all the work the week before but really all offseason builds up to that because you know who that first opponent is. So, not that you’re game planning four months ago, but you still are thinking about that first opponent and what’s coming up. So a lot that’s built to this moment … it’ll be fun.”

Top comments from Wednesday’s post:

acedarney
I think the most important storyline is whether the coach is any good. The players can come and go, but if the team is still broken at the top, then it doesn’t matter. We’ll be going through all this again in a few years. If the coach can maintain success, that’s the key. Of course, we won’t get a conclusive answer after one game against the lowly Panthers.
JaxCommenterGuy
Ideally, for us to have more points than the other team when the game is over.
Jaguardian
A lack of separation from the corners during pass plays, courtesy of a relentless rush from our defensive ends. (an expected thirty sacks minimum combined) HUNT!!!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/nfl-r...-what-jaguars-fans-are-watching-for-in-week-1

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars vs Panthers Matchup History: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

The 2025-26 NFL Season is officially here! The Jaguars start the season at home against fellow 1995 expansion team, the Carolina Panthers. The Jags and Panthers have played each other eight times during the regular season, and the series is currently tied. Let’s take a stroll through franchise history to look at the good, the bad, and the ugly from the team’s series against the Panthers.

Series results

Date	Visitor	Home
12/31/2023	Carolina Panthers – 0	Jacksonville Jaguars – 26
10/06/2019	Jacksonville Jaguars – 27	Carolina Panthers – 34
09/13/2015	Carolina Panthers – 20	Jacksonville Jaguars – 9
09/25/2011	Jacksonville Jaguars – 10	Carolina Panthers – 16
12/09/2007	Carolina Panthers – 6	Jacksonville Jaguars – 37
09/07/2003	Jacksonville Jaguars – 23	Carolina Panthers – 24
09/19/1999	Jacksonville Jaguars – 22	Carolina Panthers – 20
09/29/1996	Carolina Panthers – 14	Jacksonville Jaguars – 24

The Good

Week 17 at EverBank Stadium on December 31, 2023
Final score: Panthers 0 – Jaguars 26
Attendance: 67,215

The record-breaker!

@JoshAllen41_ | #DUUUVAL pic.twitter.com/Xx4lAdC2Le

— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) December 31, 2023

Who could forget Cam Robinson’s ejection or Josh Hines-Allen’s record-breaking sack? Travis Etienne scored both touchdowns and led the team with 102 rushing yards. C.J. Beathard completed 17 out of 24 attempted passes for 178 yards. Evan Engram led the team with 60 receiving yards. Brandon McManus made all four of the attempted field goals. Antonio Johnson had a 27-yard interception. Tyson Campbell led the team with eight combined tackles. Hines-Allen recorded three sacks, Travon Walker recorded two, and Roy Robertson-Harris had one.

Tempers flaring in Jacksonville pic.twitter.com/dBrJV5S6MZ

— NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS) December 31, 2023

The Bad

Week 1 at Ericsson Stadium on September 7, 2003
Final score: Jaguars 23 – Panthers 24
Attendance: 72,134

Marc Edwards, Matthew Hatchette, and Jermaine Lewis scored touchdowns. Mark Brunell completed 23 out of 27 attempted passes for 272 yards. Fred Taylor led the team with 71 rushing yards, and Jermaine Lewis led with 90 receiving yards. Seth Marler made one out of the two attempted field goals. Akin Ayodele and Rashean Mathis had interceptions. Tony Brackens recorded two sacks.

The Ugly

Week 1 at EverBank Field on September 13, 2015
Final score: Panthers 20 – Jaguars 9
Attendance: 60,733

Rashad Greene scored the only touchdown. Blake Bortles completed 22 out of 40 attempted passes for 183 yards. T.J. Yeldon led the team with 51 rushing yards, and Allen Hurns led with 60 receiving yards. Jason Myers missed the point after attempt and made one out of two attempted field goals. Paul Posluszny had a 19-yard interception. Chris Clemons and Dan Skuta recorded sacks.

Players who have played for JAX and CAR

Player	Position	Years in JAX	Years in CAR
Alexander, Gerald	DB	2009-2010	2010
Arnold, Dan	TE	2021-2022	2021
Beuerlein, Steve	QB	1995	1996-2000
Bolden, Juran	DB	2004	1998
Bouye, A.J.	DB	2017-2019	2021
Chark, D.J.	WR	2018-2021	2023
Charlton, Joseph	P	2021	2020-2021
Considine, Sean	DB	2009-2010	2011
Cooper, Deke	DB	2003-2005	2002-2007
Cousin, Terry	DB	2005-2007	2002-2003
Cunningham, Richie	K	2002	1999-2000
Ellison, Atiyyah	DT	2008-2009	2005
Favors, Greg	LB	2004-2005	2003
Fletcher, Derrick	OG	2005	2002
Florence, Drayton	DB	2008	2013
Fordham, Todd	OT	1997-2002	2004-2006
Grant, Deon	DB	2004-2006	2001-2003
Griffin, Shaquill	DB	2021-2022	2023
Harris, Chris	DB	2012	2007-2009
Hayes, Tae	DB	2019	2022
Henderson, C.J.	DB	2020-2021	2021-2023
Humphrey, Deon	LB	2003	2000
Irvin, Corvey	DT	2011	2009-2010
Johnson, Anthony	RB	2000	1995-1999
Jordan, Leander	OT	2003	2001
Landri, Derek	DT	2007-2009	2009-2010
Love, Kyle	DT	2013	2014-2019
Manhertz, Chris	TE	2021-2022	2016-2020
Martin, Sherrod	DB	2014	2009-2012
McCree, Marlon	DB	2001-2003	2005
Means, Natrone	RB	1996-1997	2000
Miller, John	OG	2022	2020-2021
Moncrief, Donte	WR	2018	2019
Nesbit, Jamar	OG	2003	1999-2002
Nortman, Brad	P	2016-2017	2012-2015
Norwell, Andrew	OG	2018-2021	2014-2017
Omameh, Patrick	OG	2016-2018	2021
Posey, Jeff	LB	2001	2001
Quarterman, Shaquille	LB	2020-2023	2024
Reed, Christopher	OG	2016-2018	2019-2020
Reyes, Tutan	OG	2007-2008	2003-2005
Robinson, Corey	OT	2018	2018
Ross, Micah	WR	2001-2003	2004
Selvie, George	DE	2011-2012	2011
Seward, Adam	LB	2009	2005-2008
Shaw, Tim	LB	2008	2007
Shenault, Laviska	WR	2020-2021	2022-2023
Stanford, Julian	LB	2012	2020-2021
Swift, Michael	DB	2000	1999
Tuaolo, Esera	DT	1997	1999
Tylski, Rich	OG	1996-1999	2004
Williams, Teddy	DB	2014	2015-2016
Williams, Thomas	LB	2008	2011
Wilson, Damien	LB	2021	2022
Wright, Matthew	K	2021	2023

I’m hoping this week 1 matchup fares better than the two aforementioned games. Please share your favorite moments from the Jaguars vs the Panthers series with us in the comments or on social media. Not following us on social media? You can find us on Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...matchup-history-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Statement Made: Jaguars 1-0 After Panthers Victory

The Jacksonville Jaguars kicked off 2025, their inaugural season under Head Coach Liam Coen with a dominant 26-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers. The Jaguars’ defense collected 33% of their 2024 turnovers while the Jacksonville offense produced their best individual performance by a running back since 2022. Here’s everything you need to know from Jacksonville’s Week 1 2025 EverBank win over the Panthers.

Live blog:

Catch up on all the big plays and best moments from tonight’s game in our live blog!

Pregame:

The following Panthers players did not play in this one: WR Dalevon Campbell, TE James Mitchell, DT Cam Jackson, and WR Jimmy Horn. Horn is an interesting inactive after the team recently traded away Adam Thielen and placed Jalen Corker on injured reserve. That Carolina decided to play third-year undrafted free agent WR Brycen Tremayne over the rookie sixth-round pick was a slight surprise to most. Most notably, Panthers starting left tackle Ikem Ekwonu was made inactive after undergoing an emergency appendectomy late last week. He was unable to practice all week.

For Jacksonville, second-year, defensive tackle Maason Smith, a 2024 second round pick was surprisingly made inactive in this one in what seems to be a healthy scratch. Smith missed much of training camp with an undisclosed training injury and first participated in the third preseason matchup. It’s possible that the team is allowing him time to ramp up his conditioning after missing much of the 2025 offseason. Additionally, the team was without CB Montaric Brown, OL Wyatt Milum, OL Cole Van Lanen, DL Danny Striggow, and DL B.J. Green III for today’s matchup.

1st Quarter

Jacksonville started with the ball, converting an early mid-field fourth and 1 via a 4-yard Dyami Brown rush. After a first-down Robert Hainsey holding penalty, Strange secured his second catch on the drive, this one for a first down. However, the team was unable to convert this drive into a touchdown after a first down, Lawrence 12-yard intentional grounding penalty. The Cam Little 35-yard field goal kicked off the scoring to wrap up the 13-play, 55-yard, 6:45 drive. In total, the Jacksonville offense racked up three penalties for 32-yards on the first series, to add a Brian Thomas Jr drop on a jailbreak screen. (Jaguars 3, Panthers 0)

The Carolina offense opened their drive with multiple strong rushes, getting moderate movement up front against the Jacksonville interior. After an underthrown Bryce Young pass attempt was broken up by Jourdan Lewis the 13-play, 41-yard, 7:39 drive was capped by a Panthers’ 48-yard field goal. Lewis initially was beaten by Hunter Renrow on the route, but didn’t give up, breaking up the pass at the last moment. Interestingly, the Jacksonville defensive line consistently rotated throughout the opening drive, with one snap on the drive occurring with Josh Hines-Allen, Travon Walker, and Arik Armstead all off the field. (Jaguars 3, Panthers 3)

2nd Quarter

The Jacksonville offense, however, went three-and-out on the following drive after a short Travis Etienne rush, an Etienne screen, and a Travis Hunter catch for a loss of yards on third and three. The Jacksonville defense immediately got the ball back with safety Eric Murray nearly intercepting Young. However, Foye Oluokun was trailing the play, securing the diving interception off the deflection.

After a short, 8-play, 35-yard, 4:12 drive Lawrence found TE Hunter Long running alone in the endzone for the 6-yard touchdown. Cam Little’s extra point was good. (Jaguars 10, Panthers 3)

Just as we all expected, Hunter Long with our first TD of the season.#CARvsJAX on FOX pic.twitter.com/TYlA9Dc2f7

— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) September 7, 2025

Immediately after the extra point, the game then entered an hour, 16-minute weather delay with 8:32 remaining in the second quarter.

Following the stoppage in play, Panthers put together a promising drive, threatening to score after third-down 22-yard Young rush into Jacksonville territory. However, Jourdan Lewis shut the door on the drive, with a near-sack of Young on third-down resulting in a punt. On the following play, Travis Etienne forced two missed tackles, bursting out from the 9-yard line on a 71-yard race to daylight, before being tackled at the Carolina 20. After a few Bhayshul Tuten rushes, Brian Thomas Jr then walked in untouched for the 9-yard touchdown rush. (Jaguars 17, Panthers 3)

BTJ to the end zone!

CARvsJAX on FOXhttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/8VxV0aBVil

— NFL (@NFL) September 7, 2025

After the Panthers picked an early first down on the drive, Foye Oluokun then forced his second turnover in as many quarters of play, punching the ball out Young’s grasp. Jourdan Lewis recovered the Young fumble with 55-seconds remaining in the half. Lawrence and the offense capitalized via a 23-yard Dyami Brown reception with six-seconds remaining. Cam Little then drilled the 47-yard field goal with one-second remaining in the half. (Jaguars 20, Panthers 3)

At the half, Jacksonville leads the following categories:

• Time of possession: 15:44 to 14:16
• Yards per rush: 10.3 to 5.3
• Rushing yards: 134 to 74
• Redzone: 2 of 3 in the redzone vs 0 redzone conversions
• Passing yards per attempt: 6.7 to 3.1
• Passing yards: 128 to 47
• Total yards: 262 to 124
• First downs: 12 to 6
• Turnovers Forced: 2 to 0 (10 points off of turnovers for Jacksonville at the half)

halftime qb update pic.twitter.com/ds5O5Mur5O

— Gus Logue (@gus_logue) September 7, 2025

3rd Quarter

Carolina began the half with possession and immediately marched down the field on the back of a Tet McMillian early catch and a 26-yard pass interference from Jarrian Jones while covering McMillian. However, the Jacksonville defense bent without breaking in the redzone, stopping Carolina on four straight plays while inside their own 10-yard line.

Jacksonville also went three-and-out on the following series, with Lawrence unable to connect with the tightly covered Thomas Jr on third down. Carolina picked up an early first down catch from Hunter Renfrow, before Dawuane Smoot shut the door on the series with a 12-yard sack on third-and-1 to force a punt.

Smoot tv with the sack! Beautiful stunt using Josh Hines Allen. pic.twitter.com/IpjIeGBUzf

— Fitz (@LaurieFitzptrck) September 7, 2025

The penalty issue again popped up on the following drive with both Patrick Mekari and Dyami Brown both called for holding penalties while inside of their own 20-yard line. On the following play, Lawrence was intercepted by Jaycee Horn on an underthrown pass to Travis Hunter.

Jaycee Horn ONE-HANDED pick!

CARvsJAX on FOXhttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/VJYtGbVNds

— NFL (@NFL) September 7, 2025

The Jacksonville defense held Carolina to three-and-out with Tyson Campbell forcing a Tet McMillian endzone fourth down incompletion.

Tyson Campbell vs. McMilllan. Great breakup as hes trying to bring it in. pic.twitter.com/7RAlxIHwmY

— Fitz (@LaurieFitzptrck) September 7, 2025

4th Quarter

After a shaky third quarter for Lawrence, going 1 for 6 with an interception, the Jacksonville offense picked things up with Trevor going 4 for 6 on the 15-play, 49-play drive, capped by a Cam Little 36-yard field goal. (Jaguars 23, Panthers 3)

With the Jaguars seemingly playing slightly softer, fourth quarter coverage Carolina methodically moved down the field scoring their first touchdown of the matchup – a 27-yard catch and run by Chuba Hubbard. A missed tackle by Eric Murray allowed the Panthers back to waltz into the endzone untouched. (Jaguars 23, Panthers 10)

Anton Harrison left the game during this drive with a back injury. Chuma Edoga filled in at right tackle with Cole Van Lanen previously announced inactive. After recovering the onside kick, Jacksonville, in time milking mode put together a 7-play, 38-yard, 2:50 field goal drive with Cam Little making the 28-yard attempt. (Jaguars 26, Panthers 10)

Jourdan Lewis then put a bow on this one with a tipped pass interception to wrap the Panthers’ final drive. Final score: Jaguars 26, Panthers 10

Best highlight:

Travis Etienne’s 71-yard second quarter rush truly opened up the game for the Jacksonville offense.

Travis Etienne goes 71 YARDS on the ground!

CARvsJAX on FOXhttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/tvsIl6cNNJ

— NFL (@NFL) September 7, 2025

Biggest play(s) of the game:

According to rbsdm.com, the biggest play of the game by Expected Points Added (EPA) was Foye Oluokun’s second quarter interception (-4.9 EPA).

See ball, get ball!#CARvsJAX on FOX pic.twitter.com/KOM94axqQn

— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) September 7, 2025

Per rbsdm.com, this play was also the biggest play of the game by Win Probability (-12%).

Key stats (traditional):

• QB Trevor Lawrence: 19/31 for 178-yards (5.7 YPA) with 1 TD & 1 interception (74.4 QBR)
• RB Travis Etienne: 16 carries for 148-yards (8.9 YPC), 3 catches on 3 targets for 13-yards (4.3 YPR)
• TE Brenton Strange: 4 catches on 4 targets for 59-yards (14.9 YPR)
• WR Dyami Brown: 3 catches on 4 targets (17.3 YPR), and 2 rushes for 6-yards (3.0 YPC)
• LB Foye Oluokun: 10-tackles (6-solo), 1 interception, and 1 fumble forced
• CB Jourdan Lewis: 5 tackles (3-solo), 1 interception, 3 passes defensed, 1 QB hit, and 1 fumble recovery
• DE Dawuane Smoot: 2 tackles (1-solo), 1 QB sack

View the full box score here.

Game balls:

• Special Teams: K Cam Little: 4/4 with a long of 47-yards and 2/2 on extra points
• Defense: While both Jourdan Lewis (interception, 2 pass breakups, and a fumble recovery) and Eric Murray (big hit and deflection causing the Foye interception) both receive honorable mentions, this award goes to Foye Oluokun hands down

Foye has an INT and a force fumble in this game pic.twitter.com/eTxzLt4rff

— Fitz (@LaurieFitzptrck) September 7, 2025

A 10-tackle game with 6-solo, an interception, and a fumble forced in a game where your team scores 10-points off turnovers will get you a player of the game nomination every day and twice on Sunday.

• Offense: RB Travis Etienne dominated the day on the ground with 16 carries for 148-yards (8.9 YPC), 3 catches on 3 targets for 13-yards (4.3 YPR). This was the most rushing yard of any Jacksonville running back since Etienne’s 156-yard game in week 8 of the 2022 season against the Denver Broncos.

PFF notable player:

The team over at Pro Football Focus noted the following:

• The Jaguars produced 122-yards on explosive rushes versus the Panthers’ 22-yards.
• The Panthers’ Bryce Young had 41-scramble yards versus the Jaguars’ 14
• DE Josh Hines-Allen collected 7 QB pressures, 3 QB hits, and 4 hurries

Notable absences:

The following Jacksonville players did not participate in Sunday’s matchup due to noted injuries throughout the week:

• OL Wyatt Milum (knee)
• OL Cole Van Lanen (shoulder)
• CB Montaric Brown (ankle)

Healthy Scratches:

• DT Maason Smith (coaches’ decision)
• DL Danny Striggow (healthy scratch)
• DL B.J. Green III (healthy scratch)

The following players left Sunday’s game due to injury:

• RT Anton Harrison (back)

Full highlights:

• You can watch the top plays of the Week 1 matchup on the NFL’s YouTube channel here.

Post-game lingering questions:

1. Can the team clean up the miscues?

A familiar story popped up early on in this one with Jacksonville’s offense committing three penalties for 32-yards. The two holding penalties came courtesy of Center Robert Hainsey and Tight End Johnny Mundt. The final penalty on the drive, a first-down Trevor Lawrence intentional grounding penalty from the redzone resulted in a field goal instead of a potential touchdown series. The issue again popped up in the third quarter, with Patrick Mekari and Dyami Brown both called for holding penalties before Lawrence’s interception. As the penalties have been an ongoing storyline throughout the offseason, this will likely continue to be something we keep an eye on throughout the early portions of the season.

2. Turnovers Galore

After a 2024 season where the Jacksonville defense had just 8 defensive turnovers, Anthony Campanile’s unit was able for force three turnovers today. With two interceptions, one fumble recovery, and two turnovers on downs the defense often set their offense up for success, holding Bryce Young to a 48.9 passer rating in the process.

3. Missed tackles continue to be a point of emphasis

With the team nearly able to wrap the game up, the issue of missed tackles continued to show themselves, as Panthers’ running back Chuba Hubbard shed Eric Murray’s tackle attempt to walk into the endzone for the Panther’s fourth quarter touchdown to create a 13-point game. Nevertheless, the defense played really well to recover from those misses, with others hustling to follow the play. Without the QB scrambles, the Carolina run game was limited to 20-carries for 73-yards (3.65 YPC). That’s winning football against a quality rushing offense.

The Cincinnati Bengals are up next for the Jaguars, who will travel up for their week 2 matchup. What are your thoughts from tonight’s game, Jaguars fans? Who surprised you most or disappointed you with their play tonight? Let us know in the comments.

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/game-...ement-made-jaguars-1-0-after-panthers-victory

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars vs Bengals: Week 2 opening odds

The Jacksonville Jaguars (1-0) will face the Cincinnati Bengals (1-0) at 1:00 p.m. EST on Sunday, Sept. 14 at Paycor Stadium.

According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the Bengals are 3.5-point favorites and the total is set at 49.5 points.

“Really cool to be standing up here obviously after a win,” head coach Liam Coen said after the Week 1 win over Carolina. “I was just really proud to be their coach today with the way that they competed, the way we hit, the way we were more physical, all the things that we kind of wanted to preach about.”

“Now, is it perfect? Absolutely not. You’re frustrated with some of the penalties that have continued to bite us in the butt that we did overcome at times, but that’s not something we want to get used to doing, by any means. So when you play teams as we go throughout this thing, we cannot do those things and expect to win.”

The Bengals narrowly won their Week 1 bout against the Browns, and it wasn’t pretty.

From ESPN Research: The Browns held the Bengals to 7 yards in the second half. It's the fewest yds in the second half by a winning team in the last 25 years.

Cleveland outgained Cincinnati, 327-141, and doubled-up on first downs (22-11) in the one-point loss.

— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) September 7, 2025

What are your thoughts on the Jaguars’ Week 2 matchup? Let us know in the comments below!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacksonville-jaguars-odds/76811/jaguars-vs-bengals-week-2-opening-odds

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Travis Hunter Makes Regular Season Debut: ‘I Did My Job’

Once upon a time, Travis Hunter’s grandmother signed him up for football. On Sunday, she stood as a witness to the fruits of her endeavor.

The former second-overall pick and current NFL unicorn made his debut with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the team’s 26-10 win over the Carolina Panthers. Pregame, Hunter embraced with his family and his grandmother who made a decision that may end up reshaping the Jaguars as an organization and football as a whole. What a fateful day that was, however many years ago.

Jump ahead to 2025, the WR/CB played both offense and defense in his first regular season game, but far more offense than the tackling side of the ball.

Hunter started on offense and played 42 snaps, catching a team-high six passes for 33 yards. Defensively, Hunter played just six snaps mostly in zone looks as an extra man.

By doing so, Hunter became the first NFL player over the last 20 seasons to play five or more defensive snaps and catch five or more passes in single game, setting the first of what projects to be many records for Hunter and his team.

“I was just excited and ready to go out and win with my team and bring the energy,” Hunter said postgame Sunday. “I try to bring the energy, bring the guys up and stay true to ourselves.”

As was the case during the preseason, Hunter didn’t necessarily light the world on fire with his play. It was a pedestrian day by second-overall pick standards, especially given the 68-yard day eighth-overall pick Tet McMillian had for the Panthers.

Hunter’s biggest contribution was probably his amped up sideline energy. For example, his infectious smile and personality were on full display during Brian Thomas Jr.’s rushing score. If all Hunter needs to do is smile and wave for his team to score and eventually win, that is good with him.

“I just go out there and be myself,” Hunter said. “My job is to bring the energy and do my job.”

Travis Hunter feeling it after this @Jaguars TD!

: FOX pic.twitter.com/T0uhdVeXro

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) September 7, 2025

Every Jags fan knows Hunter can play more. Hunter knows that. His grandmother knows that. It was actually the offensive scheme of the Panthers which saw the former Heisman trophy winner limited on defense. But that is going to change as the season goes along, according to head coach Liam Coen.

“That was game one,” Coen said postgame. “There were a lot of different coverage changes with their formations, adjustments. It was a little less for him this game. It will only continue to evolve. I can only see it going and expanding from here.”

While it may not have been Hunter’s direct impact, the defense as a whole stymied the Panthers at almost every turn, snagging a pair of picks and forcing a fumble to go along with two turnovers on downs. That fact was no surprise to the rookie from Colorado.

“We do that every day in practice, just fly around,” Hunter said. “The big emphasis is to get to the ball. Tips and overthrows, we get those. That is what we have been doing.”

The usually overjoyed Hunter, donning his new-look buzz cut, wasn’t frustrated with his play time or lack thereof. He wasn’t subtweeting the team afterwards or taking his frustrations out with the media. He got a win in his first game and that was enough.

“I just go out there when they call my name,” Hunter said. “We went out there and won. My first game was a dub. That was exciting for me.”

Offensively, the Jags gashed Carolina for 200 yards on the ground. Seeing that play out excited the young unicorn player, as running the ball tends to force more man coverages, which allow for more touches for receivers.

If his first game was any inclination, there are probably more five-plus catch games in Hunter’s future.

“I did my job. That was the main focus,” Hunter said. “I did what they asked me to do. I know I can do more, I know I can do better.”

The only real blemish on Hunter’s debut Sunday was he didn’t play more. He was the targeted receiver on Jaycee Horn’s miraculous one-handed interception as well, which momentarily made even someone like Hunter seem normal.

However, Hunter is as special as it gets. No one is asked to play football quite like Hunter. He will only be asked to play more and more as the weeks go on.

And all have Hunter’s grandmother to thank for that.

here are all 8 of Travis Hunter's targets in Week 1

that led the team, and it included 3 screens to force the ball into his hands

42 snaps on offense vs 6 on defense in a blowout win

BTJ – 57 of 66 snaps
Dyami Brown – 47 of 66
Travis Hunter – 42 of 66 pic.twitter.com/Hldz6KPlGS

— Josh Norris (@JoshNorris) September 8, 2025

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...unter-makes-regular-season-debut-i-did-my-job

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Trade: Jaguars send Tank Bigsby to the Eagles for 2026 draft picks

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 07: Tank Bigsby #4 of the Jacksonville Jaguars is introduced prior to a game against the Carolina Panthers at EverBank Stadium on September 07, 2025 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

After leading the Jacksonville Jaguars in all rushing categories last season, Tank Bigsby accounted for just 12 of the team’s 200 rushing yards in its dominant Week 1 win.

24 hours after the game, Ian Rapoport reported that Bigsby has been traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for 2026 fifth and sixth round picks.

Sources: The #Eagles are at it again, trading for #Jaguars RB Tank Bigsby. The champs continue to build. pic.twitter.com/vEW86peKRq

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 8, 2025

The Eagles “liked Bigsby’s effectiveness as a kickoff returner” according to The Athletic’s Brooks Kubena. Bigsby’s 28.5 yards per return ranks 10th out of 54 players (min. 10 kick returns) since he entered the league in 2023.

He had a 20-yard return on Sunday in the debut of the league’s new dynamic kickoff rule, which was designed to promote returns. The design worked. According to ESPN’s Bill Barnwell, the NFL’s Week 1 touchback rate on kickoffs dropped from 64.5% in 2024 to 18.6% this season.

With Bigsby out of the fold, Jacksonville’s primary kick returners figure to be Parker Washington and Bhayshul Tuten.

The team’s belief in Tuten and fellow Day 3 rookie LeQuint Allen allowed the Jaguars to continue to stock draft capital. Those two will mix in on offense behind lead back Travis Etienne, who posted over 150 yards from scrimmage in Week 1.

“You could feel [Etienne] all day,” head coach Liam Coen said postgame. “You definitely felt him being a little bit — having a little bit more burst maybe than other guys on the grass. He looked fresh. He looked fast. He took care of the football. Proud of him. He did a great job, but the whole unit, really all the way through the end of the game, ran the ball effectively.”

Bigsby finished his Jaguars career with 223 carries for 910 yards (4.1 yards per carry) and 9 touchdowns, plus 8 receptions for 60 yards.

Jacksonville now has a league-high 13 picks in next year’s NFL Draft.

Jags have 13 picks in the 2026 draft now including:

Round 2: own
Round 3: own
Round 3: Detroit
Round 3: Detroit
Round 4: own
Round 5: Minnesota
Round 5: own
Round 5: Eagles (could be a 4th)
Round 6: Eagles
Round 7: rams
Round 7: Detroit
Round 7: eagles
Round 7: own

— Demetrius Harvey (@Demetrius82) September 9, 2025

What are your thoughts on the trade, Jaguars fans? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...ank-bigsby-to-the-eagles-for-2026-draft-picks

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars Rookie Report: How Travis Hunter and others fared in Week 1

The Jacksonville Jaguars kicked off the 2025 season with a fairly easy win over the Carolina Panthers as they never trailed on their way to a 26-10 victory.

It was a complete team effort as the team won in all three phases of the game, and while the stars were the driving force of the victory, the 2025 rookie class made a significant impact in this one.

In fact, every draftee that wasn’t on the injury report saw action on Sunday and they all contributed in some way to the win. Let’s dive into how each rookie fared in Week 1, and we’ll kick things off with The Unicorn himself, Travis Hunter.

Travis Hunter

After missing most of the preseason with a minor injury, it was unclear just how adept to the offense Travis Hunter would be in his first real game action of his career but those questions were quickly answered as he received two targets on the very first drive of the game.

He finished the game with a team-high eight targets as he hauled in six of them for 33 yards on the day. While those numbers aren’t eye-opening by any means, they do show that Liam Coen and the Jacksonville passing attack want to prioritize getting the ball in his hands to set him up with catch-and-run opportunities.

Travis Hunter's first NFL catch!

CARvsJAX on FOXhttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/CRV1aC4VrT

— NFL (@NFL) September 7, 2025

On the defensive side of the ball, Hunter played just six snaps which didn’t really allow for much of a glimpse at his ability in coverage. He allowed one catch where he helped to clean up the tackle afterwards for his only registered stat on defense.

Bhayshul Tuten

Rookie running back Bhayshul Tuten saw minimal work in the backfield on Sunday as he had just three carries on the day. However, the first carry of his career really highlighted what he can provide this offense as he made something out of nothing on his way to an eight-yard gain.

Bhayshul Tuten is probably already the best zone runner on this team if he can maintain ball security.

This press and slide inside paired with his burst is breathtaking.

Could complement Etienne very soon. pic.twitter.com/h9AH6rOkB4

— Matt Waldman (@MattWaldman) September 8, 2025

His decisiveness in the face of traffic to get lateral and burst through the open hole is something that has been an inconsistent trait amongst Jacksonville running backs for a while. If he can sprinkle plays like that into this offense consistently, then his role will only continue to increase – especially after the recent Tank Bigsby trade.

Jack Kiser

The fourth round linebacker out of Notre Dame didn’t register a defensive snap on Sunday but he did see 13 special teams snaps. While he didn’t notch anything in the stat column, Kiser is coming off of an impressive camp and preseason where he beat out veteran Chad Muma for that final LB4 spot on the final roster. While it was a quiet outing, Kiser should have opportunities to make an impact as the season progresses.

Rayuan Lane

Like Kiser, safety Rayuan Lane was primarily used on special teams on Sunday as he saw 13 snaps on that unit where he tallied one tackle on the day.

Lane’s ability to be the first man to the ball on the punt and kickoff united flashed all preseason and that will be the expectation for him all season. The team released long-time gunner Daniel Thomas this offseason in favor of the rookie out of Navy so they clearly have high expectations for him in that role.

Jonah Monheim

The special teams train keeps on chugging as Monheim saw most of his work with the specialists as well, although he did come in for both kneel-downs at the end of the game so he registered two “offensive ” snaps.

The USC product held up well on the kick coverage unit and will continue to be the primary backup to starting center Robert Hainsey for now.

LeQuint Allen Jr.

There is an argument to be made that the Jaguars’ last draft pick in the 2025 NFL Draft was actually the most impactful rookie not named Travis Hunter on the day.

LeQuint Allen Jr. played 11 total snaps with nine coming on offense where he tallied one rush for seven yards and one reception for four yards. However, it was his pass protection out of the backfield that really stood out.

One of the reasons the #Jaguars felt they could move on from Bigsby is 7th-round rookie LeQuint Allen Jr. Liam Coen has recognized this play from Sunday twice since the game ended. pic.twitter.com/adHyzF8SyC

— John Shipley (@_John_Shipley) September 9, 2025

His anticipation and willingness to engage with free rushers could be a huge factor in Liam Coen’s offense which could lead to the seventh rounder being a major factor on this team going forward.

Let us know your thoughts on the rookies in the comments below!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...-how-travis-hunter-and-others-fared-in-week-1

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars vs Bengals Matchup History: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

We are on to Week 2 of the 2025-26 NFL Season, and our Jacksonville Jaguars are currently undefeated! The team is on the road this week to face off against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Jags and Bengals have played each other 25 times, and Jacksonville currently leads the series 13-12. Let’s take a stroll through franchise history to look at the good, the bad, and the ugly from the team’s series against the Bengals.

Series results

Date	Visitor	Score	Home	Score
09/10/1995	Jacksonville Jaguars	17	Cincinnati Bengals	24
11/26/1995	Cincinnati Bengals	17	Jacksonville Jaguars	13
10/27/1996	Jacksonville Jaguars	21	Cincinnati Bengals	28
12/01/1996	Cincinnati Bengals	27	Jacksonville Jaguars	30
10/05/1997	Cincinnati Bengals	13	Jacksonville Jaguars	21
11/23/1997	Jacksonville Jaguars	26	Cincinnati Bengals	31
11/08/1998	Cincinnati Bengals	11	Jacksonville Jaguars	24
11/29/1998	Jacksonville Jaguars	34	Cincinnati Bengals	17
10/31/1999	Jacksonville Jaguars	41	Cincinnati Bengals	10
01/02/2000	Cincinnati Bengals	7	Jacksonville Jaguars	24
09/17/2000	Cincinnati Bengals	0	Jacksonville Jaguars	13
12/17/2000	Jacksonville Jaguars	14	Cincinnati Bengals	17
11/11/2001	Cincinnati Bengals	13	Jacksonville Jaguars	30
12/09/2001	Jacksonville Jaguars	14	Cincinnati Bengals	10
12/15/2002	Jacksonville Jaguars	29	Cincinnati Bengals	15
10/09/2005	Cincinnati Bengals	20	Jacksonville Jaguars	23
11/02/2008	Jacksonville Jaguars	19	Cincinnati Bengals	21
10/09/2011	Cincinnati Bengals	30	Jacksonville Jaguars	20
09/30/2012	Cincinnati Bengals	27	Jacksonville Jaguars	10
11/02/2014	Jacksonville Jaguars	23	Cincinnati Bengals	33
11/05/2017	Cincinnati Bengals	7	Jacksonville Jaguars	23
10/20/2019	Jacksonville Jaguars	27	Cincinnati Bengals	17
10/04/2020	Jacksonville Jaguars	25	Cincinnati Bengals	33
09/30/2021	Jacksonville Jaguars	21	Cincinnati Bengals	24
12/04/2023	Cincinnati Bengals	34	Jacksonville Jaguars	31

The Good

The biggest deficit: Week 8 at Cinergy Field on October 31, 1999
Final score: Jaguars 41 – Bengals 10
Attendance: 49,138

Fred Taylor, Keenan McCardell, Jimmy Smith, and James Stewart scored touchdowns. Mark Brunell completed 11 out of 19 attempted passes for 145 yards. Fred Taylor led the team with 128 rushing yards, and Jimmy Smith led with 89 receiving yards. Mike Hollis made the two attempted field goals. Aaron Beasley and Donovin Darius both had interceptions. Tony Brackens and Kevin Hardy each recorded one sack.

The first shutout in franchise history: Week 3 at Alltel Stadium on September 17, 2000
First score: Bengals 0 – Jaguars 13
Attendance: 45,653

Keenan McCardell scored the only touchdown. Mark Brunell completed 20 out of 32 attempted passes for 176 yards. Stacey Mack led the team with 35 rushing yards, and Keenan McCardell led with 108 receiving yards. Steve Lindsey made two out of the three attempted field goals. Hardy Nickerson and Aaron Beasley had interceptions. Nickerson, Gary Walker, Tony Brackens, and Joel Smeenge recorded sacks. Nickerson, Donovin Darius, and Kiwaukee Thomas led the team with six tackles each.

The Bad

Week 4 at EverBank Field on September 30, 2012
Final score: Jaguars 10 – Bengals 27
Attendance: 63,030

Marcedes Lewis scored the only touchdown. Blaine Gabbert completed 23 out of 34 attempted passes for 186 yards. Maurice Jones-Drew led the team with 38 rushing yards, and Justin Blackmon led with 48 receiving yards. Josh Scobee made the attempted field goal. Kyle Bosworth had an interception. Paul Posluszny and Russell Allen led with 11 combined tackles.

The Ugly

Week 13 at EverBank Stadium on December 4, 2023
Final score: Bengals 34 – Jaguars 31
Attendance: 67,951

Ain't no way!@CPW11_ | #CINvsJAX on ESPN pic.twitter.com/AQFugOrHqY

— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) December 5, 2023

While there were worse numerical losses, I chose this one for the ugly because our franchise quarterback sustained an injury after Walker Little stepped on his ankle, Christian Kirk left the game after the team’s first offensive play with a groin injury, and although victory was still within reach, the team lost in overtime. Travis Etienne, Evan Engram, Parker Washington, and Trevor Lawrence scored touchdowns. Before his injury, Lawrence completed 22 out of 29 attempted passes for 258 yards, and backup C.J. Beathard completed nine out of ten attempted passes for 63 yards. Etienne led the team with 45 rushing yards, and Engram led with 82 receiving yards. Brandon McManus made one of the two attempted field goals. Joshua Hines-Allen had an 8-yard interception and recorded 1.5 sacks. Travon Walker was credited with the 0.5 sack. Foyesade Oluokun led the team with 13 combined tackles.

Players who have played for JAX and CIN

Player	Position	Years in JAX	Years in CIN
Adams, Blue	DB	2003	2007
Allen, Brandon	QB	2016	2020-2022
Bean, Robert	DB	2002	2000-2001
Brown, Preston	LB	2019	2018-2019
Calitro, Austin	LB	2019	2021
Cosby, Quan	WR	2012	2009-2010
DeMarco, Brian	OT	1995-1998	1999
Eifert, Tyler	TE	2020	2013-2019
Flowers, Tre	DB	2024	2021-2022
Gibson, Damon	WR	2001-2002	1998
Hardy, Kevin	LB	1996-2001	2003-2004
Harrington, Christopher	DE	2009	2008
Harris, Nick	P	2011	2001-2003
Jackson, Willie	WR	1995-1997	1998-1999
Jones, David	DB	2010-2011	2007-2009
Jones, Marvin	WR	2021-2022	2012-2015
Jones, Sidney	DB	2020	2023
LeFevour, Dan	QB	2011	2010
Mabin, Greg	DB	2020	2019
Miller, John	OG	2022	2019
Mitchell, Anthony	DB	2003	2004-2005
Nelson, Reggie	DB	2007-2009	2010-2015
Ogbuehi, Cedric	OT	2019	2015-2018
Palmer, Jordan	QB	2012	2008-2010
Patterson, Elton	DE	2004	2003-2004
Porter, Sean	LB	2016	2013-2014
Pryor, Kendric	WR	2022	2024
Reynolds, LaRoy	LB	2013-2015	2019
Sadowski, Troy	TE	1998	1994-1996
Shipley, Jordan	WR	2012	2010-2011
Simmons, Clyde	DE	1996-1997	1998
Skuta, Dan	LB	2015-2016	2009-2012
Smith, Chris	DE	2014-2016	2017
Stephens, Santo	LB	1995	1994
Thompson, Lamont	DB	2007	2002
Thompson, Mike	DT	1995	1998
Trent, Morgan	DB	2011	2009-2011
Tufele, Jay	DT	2021	2022-2024

Please share your favorite moments from the Jaguars vs the Bengals series with us in the comments or on social media. Not following us on social media? You can find us on Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...matchup-history-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly

 

[Jacksonville Jaguars]

Jaguars, Bengals Wednesday Injury Report

The 1-0 Jacksonville Jaguars will look to double their win total on Sunday, as the team makes their first road trip of 2025, heading to Ohio to face the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium for the 1 P.M. kickoff. On Wednesday, both teams released their initial injury reports for the week, with generally good news for Jacksonville.

Jacksonville starting right tackle Anton Harrison opened the week as a full participant after leaving Sunday’s matchup late due to back spasms. Meanwhile, offensive lineman Cole Van Lanen was also a full participant as he seems to be improving from his offseason shoulder injury. He was a limited participant in each of last week’s practices before being listed inactive on Sunday.

In the secondary, cornerback Montaric (Buster) Brown was a limited participant on Wednesday, as his participation ramps up. Brown missed most of training camp and all of last week’s practices due to an ankle injury.

Rookie offensive lineman Wyatt Milum was noted as a did not practice (DNP) due to his training camp knee injury that resulted in him missing Sunday’s matchup.

For Cincinnati, starting right tackle Amarius Mims was a limited participant with an ankle injury. Mims did not miss any game time during Sunday’s 17-16 victory over the Cleveland Browns. However, Mims’ neighbor, starting right guard Lucas Patrick, was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday due to a calf injury suffered 16 snaps into Sunday’s matchup. The recently signed free agent, Dalton Risner, will slide into the starting lineup next to Mims with the IR move for Patrick. Risner was a free agent pickup, signed during training camp on August 28th.

Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher spoke glowingly about Risner’s play, stepping in for Patrick in Sunday’s win.

“It’s unfortunate that we’re having to call on our depth as soon as we are, but it’s certainly nice to have a guys that knows what it’s supposed to look like. He has been in the book and done a remarkable job of picking everything up as quickly as he’s picked it up. Good communicator. Smart. I really have very few concerns about getting him up and running.”

The only other listed player for Cincinnati was long snapper William Wagner, who was also a full participant with a hamstring injury.

Overall, potentially a great injury update for the left side of the Jacksonville defensive front, as a weakened Bengals offensive line looks slightly weaker after week one. Meanwhile, Jacksonville remains reasonably healthy, with a few depth pieces also improving.

What are your thoughts on the week’s first injury report, Duval? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.bigcatcountry.com/jacks...76947/jaguars-bengals-wednesday-injury-report