After going 4-13 in 2024, expectations were low for the Jacksonville Jaguars. This makes sense when you take into account that they had an unproven head coach in Liam Coen. On top of that, their roster had glaring needs. But against all odds, the Jags underwent an instant turnaround, going 13-4 and winning the AFC South title. Looking back, it's easy to see how they pulled it off.
Coen proved to be the right hire, as he was able to get the most out of his players. On the other hand, general manager James Gladstone was able to address the larger scale roster with a series of signings and trades.
Following his success in 2025, Coen and Jacksonville will have a target on their back. Fortunately, they got a gift that will ensure they'll pick up where they left off.
The Jaguars have the 11th easiest schedule in the NFL next season
The NFL dropped the strength of schedule for every team next season, and the Jaguars got the 11th easiest. Keep in mind that it takes into account last year's record but doesn't factor in free agency or the draft, so it may not be a true indicator of how tough a slate of opponents truly is.
In fact, plenty of Jacksonville's opponents made the playoffs last season, including the Houston Texans, Philadelphia Eagles, Denver Broncos, Chicago Bears, and New England Patriots. Others, like the Indianapolis Colts, were in the race until the end, while the Washington Commanders appeared in the NFC Championship as recently as 2024.
But even when you account for those playoff teams, the Jags should be able to finish with a winning record in back-to-back seasons. Of course, the goal is to get over the hump. Jacksonville made the playoffs in 2025 but was knocked out in the wild-card round. The expectation should be to at least advance to the divisional round.
Based on their strength of schedule, the Jags should pull it off.
The Jaguars need to take advantage of their easy schedule
Of course, it will all be moot if the Jaguars cannot take advantage of their early schedule. Last year, they got off to an inconsistent start but finished strong; that cannot happen again if they want to end with the best possible seed. Jacksonville will need to get off to a hot start, so it can have a bit of room for error later in the season.
Working in the Jags' favor is that they have way more experience under Liam Coen. He now has a better grasp of how to navigate the challenges that the NFL presents. Similarly, Trevor Lawrence played like a top-10 quarterback to end 2025. If he can build off of that, he should be in the MVP conversation throughout the year.
Moreover, the Jaguars loaded up on talent in the NFL Draft. Sure, their rookie class has been under scrutiny, but some of their draft picks are poised to become instant contributors.
When you add it all up, the Jaguars are in a position to take advantage of their easy schedule. If they do, they should be able to take another step forward in Year 2 of the Liam Coen era.
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