The Jacksonville Jaguars enter the 2025 season carrying both high expectations and lingering questions. After a turbulent 2024 campaign that ended without playoff success, the road to reclaiming the AFC South is clear but far from easy. For this team to rise above division rivals, three critical adjustments must align. If the Jacksonville Jaguars can clean up these areas, they will have a great shot at winning a wide-open AFC South division.
Trevor Lawrence Must Stay on the Field
Every conversation about the Jaguars’ potential begins with their quarterback. Trevor Lawrence’s talent is undeniable, but availability has been the biggest obstacle. In 2024, he endured a string of injuries—first a non-throwing shoulder setback in Week 9, followed by a concussion in Week 13, and finally a sprained toe that prematurely ended his season.
Jacksonville’s backup situation offers little comfort. Nick Mullens, now listed as the second option, owns a career win-loss record of just 5-15. That reality underscores how crucial Lawrence’s health is to the Jaguars’ division hopes. Protecting him isn’t just about keeping him upright in the pocket—it’s about sustaining the offensive rhythm, avoiding turnovers, and giving the Jaguars a fighting chance in a division that features improving competition.
The Offensive Line Must Deliver Balance
The Jaguars’ front five have been an ongoing storyline, and 2024 provided more fuel for concern. Lawrence was sacked 18 times last season, while backup Mac Jones went down 14 times in his limited appearances, bringing the total to 32 sacks. Pressure disrupted timing, limited explosive plays, and compounded Lawrence’s injury concerns.
Equally problematic was the ground game. Jacksonville finished 25th in rushing yards per game (101.7) and just 19th in yards per carry (4.2). Without a consistent run threat, defenses pinned their ears back and dared Lawrence to beat them under duress.
Improvement up front must be two-fold: create cleaner passing pockets and generate consistent push in the running game. Doing so will not only extend drives but also reduce the strain on Lawrence’s shoulders—both figuratively and literally. A balanced offense will keep opponents honest and give playmakers room to thrive.
The Defense Has to Get Off the Field
While offensive struggles gained the headlines, the defense was often the greater liability. The Jaguars ranked 31st in opponents’ yards per play in 2024, surrendering 5.9 yards each snap. Third-down defense was equally troubling, with opponents converting 43.11% of their attempts. Simply put, Jacksonville could not get stops when it mattered.
There are reasons for cautious optimism. The team has infused depth and energy at linebacker, adding rookie Jack Kiser alongside Yasir Abdullah, Devin Lloyd, and Foyesade Oluokun. This mix of youth and experience gives the defensive coordinator, Anthony Campanile, options to adjust packages and disguise looks. For the Jaguars to contend, the defense must flip its 2024 narrative—turning prolonged drives into punts and forcing mistakes that give Lawrence more possessions.
The Path Ahead
Winning the AFC South will not come from any single factor. It will require Trevor Lawrence staying healthy, an offensive line that finally plays to its potential, and a defense that proves it can stop opponents in critical situations. The pieces are in place, but execution will decide whether Jacksonville lives up to its billing as a contender or falls back into the middle of the pack
A Season That Hinges on Critical Adjustments