Jaguars Aim to Break Historical Trend and Secure Back-to-Back Playoff Berths

The Jacksonville Jaguars enter the 2026 NFL season with a singular, ambitious objective: to achieve back-to-back postseason appearances for the first time this century. Despite a standout 13-4 record and an AFC South title in 2025, the organization remains acutely aware of its history. Twice before—in 2017 and 2022—the franchise surged to division titles only to falter in the subsequent years, a pattern owner Shad Khan is determined to break.

Following a 27-24 playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills in January, the team’s leadership, including head coach Liam Coen, general manager James Gladstone, and executive vice president of football operations Tony Boselli, turned their attention immediately toward sustaining their momentum. Khan has emphasized that avoiding regression is the primary focus, citing previous organizational failures—such as the 2023 collapse—as cautionary tales that the team must now overcome through consistent performance.

Players have noted that the current environment feels more sustainable than in previous years. Defensive tackle DaVon Hamilton, who has experienced both the highs and lows of the franchise, highlighted that the team is currently focused on refining technique and fundamentals rather than fixating solely on results. This disciplined approach is designed to ensure that the success of last season serves as a foundation rather than a peak.

The continuity within the coaching staff and the return of key offensive weapons, including Parker Washington, Brian Thomas Jr., and Travis Hunter, provide a stable environment for Lawrence to build upon his late-season surge. With a more comprehensive grasp of the playbook and established chemistry with his receivers, Lawrence is expected to lead an offense that averaged 32.5 points per game during its late-season winning streak. As the team prepares for a challenging 2026 schedule, the focus remains on maintaining that high level of efficiency and proving that their recent success was the beginning of a new era for the franchise.