ESPN lists Jaguars among NFL teams likely to decline in 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 25, 2026, 2:03 PM
Last updated Aug 25, 2026

ESPN's Bill Barnwell identifies the Jacksonville Jaguars as one of five NFL teams anticipated to decline in the 2026 season. Despite a strong 2025 campaign, ending with a 13-4 record, concerns are raised regarding the team's performance in one-score games and difficulty in sustaining positive turnover metrics. The Jaguars' schedule, featuring numerous road games, alongside the loss of a largely favorable competition aspect, adds to skepticism about their ability to replicate past success. However, continuity in offensive and defensive systems could allow for growth, as evidenced by emerging connections between players like Trevor Lawrence and Brian Thomas Jr.
- •Jaguars went 13-4 in 2025 with Liam Coen as coach.
- •They were 6-2 in one-score games, a volatile statistic.
- •Jaguars' competition in the last season included many backup quarterbacks.
- •Concerns over sustaining positive turnover margin and fumble recovery rates.
- •Continuity in systems may benefit players like Trevor Lawrence this season.
- 2:03 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN predicts Jaguars among teams 'most likely to decline' in 2026
"ESPN believes that the Jaguars are among the teams "most likely to decline" in 2026.
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