The Jacksonville Jaguars struggled with a stagnant and, at times, lackadaisical defense last year. They sat at the bottom of the league in turnovers (eight), 31st in total yards allowed (389.9), last in passing yards (257.4), and 27th in points allowed (25.6). Though there were other factors to a terrible 2024, the play was bad enough for owner Shad Kahn to clean house and bring in all new leadership.
This change started with the trifecta of talent: executive vice president of football operations Tony Boselli, head coach Liam Coen, and general manager James "I'm only 34 years old and already the best Jaguars GM in franchise history" Gladstone. Coen brought Anthony Campanile as his defensive coordinator, and Gladstone went to work bolstering the Jaguars roster with a slew of free agent signings and ballsy draft picks.
The results in Week 1? Three takeaways, two turnovers on downs, a 40 percent pressure rate, and only 10 points and 255 yards. Linebacker Foyesade Oluokun even took home a prestigious award. But he wasn't the only Jacksonville defender who stood out in the opener.
Related: Jaguars linebacker corps in great shape despite latest Foyesade Olokun update
Jaguars DC Anthony Campanile praises cornerback Jourdan Lewis
Coaches spoke to the media yesterday in the lead-up to their Week 2 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. While many players received praise, defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile took a moment to specifically speak about cornerback Jourdan Lewis.
"He's extremely valuable. Not even just as a player. You watch him go out there and play. He's got great ball skills, he attacks the ball. And he's a physical guy. He's really a unique person because he's got unbelievable leadership qualities," Campanile told the media (5:25 mark). "He's] just very honest with his teammates, and honest with me all the time."
Campanile continued, "He's a guy that I rely on and trust out there because he's a great communicator, as well. He's a guy that does things right every day, so it shows up on Sunday. You can't have enough of those guys, and we value him a whole lot, that's for sure."
#Jaguars DC Anthony Campanile said Jourdan Lewis is "extremely valuable. You watch him play, he's got great ball skills, attacks the ball, is physical. He's really a unique person because he’s got unbelievable leadership qualities. He's a guy that I rely on and trust out there." pic.twitter.com/R1IXhUBBOa
— Alessandra Pontbriand (@APontbriandTV) September 11, 2025
Lewis also has the eyes of Jags fans, as fickle as we can be. A recent survey showed him holding a massive lead over other free agent signings when it comes to fan appreciation. I'll admit that the Michigan alum flew in under the radar for me in the offseason. But now? I'm jumping on the bandwagon after No. 2 stood out in Week 1.
Related: Jaguars voice gives Trevor Lawrence massive vote of confidence ahead of Week 2
Final thoughts
The Jacksonville Jaguars still have a ways to go to prove they're a playoff-contending team. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence has to play better, and the defense must maintain its dominance against someone besides the Carolina Panthers. With that said, the defense's Week 2 matchup against a dominant Bengals offense may be the chance to prove themselves.