Jacksonville Jaguars trip to London comes with many benefits

The Jacksonville Jaguars have played one game in London every year but 2020 since 2013. While it’s great for the team’s financial growth, some local fans don’t like to surrender a home game. But all things considered, they should be thrilled about others getting to watch the Jags play.

Michael DiRocco recently wrote a great article about how the Jags’ London game is a win for the organization, the NFL, and the fans. DiRocco points out that “revenue from previous London games at Wembley account for 11-15 percent” of their local revenue, which is a reason they keep signing up to play overseas.

DiRocco notes that the Jaguars signed a three-year deal in March to keep playing in London and says that one big difference from previous arrangements it’s that they get to keep all the revenue from the game. On the other hand, the NFL sees the contract as “the latest step in the process of eventually having a permanent franchise in London”

The whole article is worth reading. DiRocco discusses the growth the Jaguars have experienced in the London market and quotes several fans that are looking forward to seeing them. On that stood out is Ian Pointer, who lives in Farnborough, Hampshire. He had the opportunity to see the Jags play in Jacksonville in 2018 but doesn’t think he’ll be able to do it again, so for him, “seeing the Jags every year in my Teal Christmas”

Playing in London comes with no downside for Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars are going to do what basically other company does, which is maximize profits. They know that by playing in London, they have the chance to increase their earnings, and most teams or corporations wouldn’t pass up that chance.

Of course, some local fans aren’t thrilled to give up a home game but there are a few reasons why it’s not a bad thing. For starters, the Jaguars have one of the worst attendance rates in the league, so whether they play or not, fans won’t show up.

Having just one winning season since 2008 plays a huge role in the team’s poor attendance. How can you convince fans to go to games when you routinely offer a bad product? On the other hand, the Cleveland Browns and the Buffalo Bills were really bad for most of the late 1990s, the 2000s, and the early 2010s but fans still showed up in hordes.

Also, Jaguars fans should like the fact that others get to enjoy their team. This is more of a personal opinion but if there’s something you like — a show, a song, a football team — wouldn’t you like others to experience it? When you listen to a song you like, you tell your friends about it. Similarly, when you have a great time at a restaurant, you recommend it, right?

Moreover, fans can always travel to London or wherever the Jacksonville Jaguars play. It’s not as if access is restricted. Why not travel, get to know new sights, and watch your favorite team at a different venue? Beating the Denver Broncos would be an added bonus.