ESPN analyst projects Jacksonville Jaguars missing 2026 NFL playoffs

ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell predicts the Jacksonville Jaguars will miss the 2026 NFL postseason despite winning the AFC South title last year with a 13-4 record. Barnwell cites defensive regression, specifically pointing to a high turnover rate that may be difficult to replicate, as a primary concern. He also expressed skepticism regarding the team's running game and offensive line performance. The Jaguars are scheduled to play 11 games away from their home stadium, which Barnwell identifies as a significant disadvantage. Despite these projections, the team enters its second season under head coach Liam Coen with the benefit of continuity in both offensive and defensive systems. Players including Trevor Lawrence and Brian Thomas Jr. continue to build chemistry during training camp, while the secondary and pass rush depth have shown development.

• 11:10 AMYahoo Sports — ESPN predicts Jaguars miss playoffs in 2026 NFL season