The Jacksonville Jaguars experienced a season of highs and lows in 2023, ultimately culminating in a bitter end. Despite a promising 8-3 start, the team could not sustain their momentum, finishing the season with a 9-8 record and missing out on both the AFC South division title and a playoff berth.
A Bright Start Dimmed by Injuries
The Jaguars' strong opening to the season was quickly overshadowed by a string of injuries to key offensive players. Receivers Christian Kirk and Zay Jones, along with star quarterback Trevor Lawrence, found themselves sidelined at crucial times. In total, ten starters or key players missed a combined 48 games, severely impacting the team’s performance.
The offensive struggles were evident as the Jaguars' line failed to provide consistent protection and support. The team recorded the second-most runs in the league that resulted in no gain or a loss, with 120 such runs. A concerning 26.5% of their rushes ended in zero or negative yardage, highlighting the inefficiencies that plagued their offense.
Defensive Woes Compound the Struggle
Defense also proved to be a liability as missed tackles became a recurring issue. Over the season, the team recorded 126 missed tackles, placing them fourth in the league for that dubious distinction. This defensive frailty was particularly evident in the latter part of the season; during the final six weeks, the Jaguars allowed an additional 44.4 yards per game on the ground compared to their performance in the first 12 weeks.
The decline was significant, with the Jaguars enduring a 1-5 skid that torpedoed their playoff hopes. Their sole victory during this stretch came in a decisive 26-0 shutout against the Carolina Panthers—a game notably missed by Lawrence due to a shoulder injury.
A Season's End and Reflections
The Jaguars’ season ended with a 28-20 loss to the Tennessee Titans, cementing their final record at 9-8. Despite the bitter end, this marked the second consecutive winning season for the team, a feat they hadn’t accomplished since 2004-05. Jaguars owner Shad Khan summed up the frustration felt by the organization, stating, "You fail as an organization. I look at it as an organizational failure." He continued, "Not to be able to win two out of the last six games, it still stings. Even though the season's over, it's like I still can't believe we couldn't do it."
Eye Towards the Future
Amidst the season's disappointments, there was a significant off-field development. The Jacksonville city council approved a $1.4 billion renovation plan for EverBank Stadium by a 14-1 vote. The agreement, however, still requires approval from 24 of the NFL's 32 owners. The renovation cost will be split evenly between the Jaguars and the city, with each contributing $625 million. Additionally, the city committed an extra $150 million for stadium maintenance and repairs over the next two seasons, shouldering 55% of the total renovation costs.
Khan reflected on the journey and the resilience of the team and its supporters, "A lot has changed from the inaugural season for the Weavers in 1995, to my first year in 2012, right through to today as we prepare to celebrate the Jaguars' 30th anniversary in the NFL. But there's been one constant throughout: Everyone wants to doubt Jacksonville. As of last night, that should no longer be the case. Not a good day for the Doubting Thomases."
In echoing Khan's sentiments, Mayor Donna Deegan expressed optimism and belief in the team's future, saying, "I hope you all believe now."
The 2023 season may have ended in disappointment on the field, but the Jaguars are laying the groundwork for a brighter future off it. With a committed ownership and a supportive city behind them, the team looks poised to overcome its recent setbacks and build towards sustained success.