Full Breakdown
Jaguars Launch OTA Season with Full-Field Practice
5/27/2026, 8:59:17 AM
Day One Overview
The Jaguars held their first OTA of the 2026 offseason on a Tuesday in late May at the Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville. The non-contact session allowed the full roster to run routes and practice coverage; veteran RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. was absent. Practice began amid weather ranging from clouds to bright sun.
Background & Context
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence entered his second year under head coach Liam Coen, who said the offseason focus is “refinement” and a vertical passing attack. The team began Phase 3 of its offseason program, emphasizing detail work over new concepts.
Key Performers
Lawrence completed a seam pass to Jakobi Meyers, threw one interception to safety Eric Murray, and hit Thomas Jr. on a route. Receivers Thomas Jr. and Parker Washington each logged catches; Thomas scored a touchdown-length play. Running back Bhayshul Tuten showed perimeter speed. On defense, Ventrell Miller recorded pass breakups and rookie Preston Hodge added an interception. Two-way player Travis Hunter participated off-field and in virtual-room drills.
Data & Statistics
Thomas Jr. finished 2025 with 48 catches for 707 yards and two TDs; his rookie year produced 87 catches for 1,282 yards (14.7 yd/catch). The secondary logged two interceptions (Murray, Hodge).
Official Statements & Responses
Coach Coen said the team is “not necessarily more of the playbook. It’s about refinement,” and stressed the need to “keep pushing the envelope” on downfield passing. He praised the players’ agility and noted improved chemistry between Lawrence and Thomas Jr. Coen added that the virtual room “has been really good for Travis to be able to go in there.” GM James Gladstone said Hunter should be fully active by training camp.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts flagged Thomas Jr.’s 2025 drop issues and noted the running-back depth chart remains unsettled after Rodriguez Jr.’s OTA absence.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources list the OTA as either May 19, 2025 or late-May 2026; injury updates for Rodriguez Jr. and Hunter’s LCL remain pending.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s not necessarily more of the playbook,” — Liam Coen, Head Coach, Jacksonville Jaguars
- “We've got to keep pushing that envelope a little bit, especially with him and BT [Brian Thomas], that connection,” — Liam Coen, Head Coach
- “The virtual room has been really good for Travis to be able to go in there,” — Liam Coen, Head Coach
- “I've been very pleased with Travis and the way like he looks, his upper body.” — Liam Coen, Head Coach
- “To get out here and be able to hear the call, go line up, say what he's got, kind of walk a few steps through,” — Liam Coen, Head Coach
What’s Next
The Jaguars will continue Phase 3 OTA work through spring, with additional sessions before the July training camp, targeting full Hunter participation.
