The spotlight of scrutiny is on the Jacksonville Jaguars this year, and understandably so.
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence is coming off a pair of lackluster years hampered by injuries. New general manager James "I walk around the field at sunrise" Gladstone made a splash in the draft when he traded up for wide receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter. And Brian Thomas Jr. is coming off a Pro Bowl season where expectations are high. So, fair or not, the world will be watching to see how some of these big names play.
There's no doubt that Lawrence, Hunter, and Thomas are key components to a high-functioning offense—and that defensive stars like ends Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker are just as crucial on the other side of the ball. But which players are flying under the radar, yet are just as crucial when it comes to winning the season opener in just a few days?
Jaguars wide receiver Parker Washington
Wide receiver Parker Washington has done nothing but impress. Jaguars senior writer John Oesher has said that, "Washington has impressed enough to perhaps push his way into a larger-than-expected role." The third-year veteran has had a stellar training camp and an active preseason, adding a layer of depth to the Jaguars' receiver room that might not have been expected.
Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero has his hands full as it is with Hunter, Thomas, and wide receiver Dyami Brown, not to mention running back Travis Etienne's playmaking ability as a receiver out of the backfield. While Carolina will gameplan against the obvious threats, Washington adds another wrinkle that can't be ignored.
Related:NFL Redraft makes it crystal clear Jaguars made right call with Travis Hunter
Jaguars tight end Brenton Strange
Talking about third-year veterans and Penn State alumni, tight end Brenton Strange has a more obvious leading role this year. He's stepping up to replace fan favorite and 2023 Pro Bowler tight end Evan Engram. As new head coach Liam Coen points out, "when he's gotten the opportunities, he's made plays. I'm excited to see him with the ball in his hands in space."
Look to see the Jaguars leaning on Strange more than expected.
"I'm excited to see him with the ball in his hands in space."
Coach Coen on @BrentonStrange.#CARvsJAX pic.twitter.com/x1EkFhreeL
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) September 3, 2025
Jaguars cornerback Jourdan Lewis
Now we're on to the other side of the ball. Defensive ends Hines-Allen and Walker get the brunt of the attention when offensive coordinators gameplan, but cornerback Jourdan Lewis is no slouch.
With wide receiver Adam Thielen's return to the Minnesota Vikings, the onus shifts more to rookie Tetairoa McMillan and sixth-year veteran Hunter Renfrow. Without a clear number one receiver, expect to see Lewis and Jaguars cornerback Tyson Campbell watching their respective sides of the field.
Related:Jaguars may be coasting to Week 1 win after major Ikem Ekwonu update
Final thoughts
The Jaguars have a lot of untested rookies and emerging stars. While they'll likely receive the bulk of attention during Carolina's game planning, expect to see a few lesser-known names making an impact on the field.
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