The 2023 season for the Jacksonville Jaguars began with promise but ultimately concluded in disappointment. After a strong 8-3 start, the Jaguars experienced a sharp decline, spiraling into a 1-5 skid that cost them the AFC South division title and a playoff spot.
This downturn was exacerbated by injuries to key offensive players. Receivers Christian Kirk and Zay Jones, along with quarterback Trevor Lawrence, were sidelined during critical junctures of the season. In total, ten starters or key players missed a combined 48 games, leaving significant gaps in the lineup. The offensive line struggled, contributing to the team recording the second-most runs in the league that went for no gain or a loss—120 runs in total. Alarmingly, 26.5% of the Jaguars' rushes either resulted in zero yards or negative yardage.
Defensive Woes
The defensive struggles further highlighted the team's difficult season. The Jaguars recorded 126 missed tackles, the fourth most in the league. Over the final six weeks of the season, the defense's performance deteriorated, allowing an additional 44.4 yards per game on the ground compared to the first 12 weeks.
Amidst this decline, the lone bright spot came in a decisive 26-0 victory against the Carolina Panthers. It was a rare moment of triumph in a period otherwise marked by losses. Notably, Trevor Lawrence missed this game due to a shoulder injury, adding to the remarkable nature of the win.
The Sting of Missed Opportunities
The late-season skid culminated in a 28-20 loss to the Tennessee Titans, cementing the Jaguars' final record at 9-8. "You fail as an organization. I look at it as an organizational failure," said Jaguars owner Shad Khan, reflecting the pervasive sense of frustration. He added, "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."
Despite the disappointing end, the 2023 season marked the Jaguars' second consecutive winning season, the first time they achieved this since 2004-05. This success has, in some ways, shifted perspectives about the team. "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," remarked Khan, emphasizing the team's progress even amidst setbacks.
The Road Ahead
Off-field developments signified hopeful strides for the franchise. The Jacksonville city council approved a $1.4 billion renovation plan for EverBank Stadium by a 14-1 vote. The agreement, pending approval from 24 of the NFL's 32 owners, will see the renovation cost split evenly between the Jaguars and the city at $625 million each. Additionally, the city committed an extra $150 million over the next two seasons for stadium maintenance and repairs, ultimately taking on 55% of the renovation costs.
Mayor Donna Deegan expressed optimism about the future, stating, "I hope you all believe now."
As the Jaguars look to regroup and build upon their recent successes, the narrative of their 2023 season stands as a testament to both the challenges and the resilience inherent in professional football. How they address their weaknesses and leverage their strengths will be crucial in shaping their trajectory in the coming seasons.