3 best-case schedule scenarios for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024
• These 3 things could help the Jaguars have a succesful season
The NFL usually reveals the regular-season schedule at some point in May. This year, though, they haven't made any announcement yet. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk speculates that it could be released after the 13th, but regardless of when it's announced, there are a few things the Jacksonville Jaguars will be looking for.
The schedule tends to favor some teams and hurts others every year. The Jags got a favorable slate in 2023 but weren't able to take advantage of it. However, they've made significant changes in the offseason and they could bounce back if any of these three scenarios take place next season.
3. The Jaguars face the Eagles, Bears and Bills early in the season
The Jags have made changes to the coaching staff and the roster. After the 2023 season, they dismissed defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell and brought in Ryan Nielsen to take his place. The Atlanta Falcons defense showed improvement with Nielsen at the helm last year, and he's expected to have a similar impact in Jacksonville next season.
On the personnel side of things, the front office made upgrades on both sides of the ball. To address their biggest needs, they signed defensive tackle Arik Armstead, center Mitch Morse, wide receiver Gabe Davis, and return specialist Devin Duvernay. The Jaguars then rounded out the roster in the draft, selecting players such as Brian Thomas Jr., and Maason Smith.
Based on all the additions Jacksonville has made, it's not hard to imagine them becoming contenders. But as good as they can be in 2024, it wouldn't hurt them to face the Buffalo Bills, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the Chicago Bears early in the season. After all, the Jags will face all those teams as visitors and all of them have open stadiums.
By December, snow games are common in those venues, and that could turn out to be a disadvantage for the Jaguars. Whereas clubs like Philly are used to playing in the elements, they could struggle. This is why they may be better off going against the three of them early in the season.