Which Jacksonville Jaguars players are under the most pressure? Coming off a successful 2025 campaign, the Jaguars now have high expectations. After handing out contracts midseason and letting key players walk in free agency, multiple players will now enter a much bigger role in 2026. Whether it is draft status or an attempt to secure long-term money, these three players are all under immense pressure heading into 2026.
Three Jaguars Players Under the Most Pressure in 2026
Brian Thomas Jr.
It’s no secret that Brian Thomas Jr. struggled in 2025. He missed three games, had 575 fewer yards, eight fewer touchdowns, 39 fewer catches, and a 5.7% increase in drop percentage. After an incredible rookie year despite poor quarterback play and play-calling, the sky seemed to be the limit for Thomas Jr.
Just one year later, his name swirled in trade rumors, and many now wonder if his rookie season was merely a mirage. While a scheme and playstyle adjustment was to be expected, Thomas Jr. looked lost throughout the season, playing without any aggression or physicality.
With a full season of experience in the system and with Trevor Lawrence, there is reason to expect a bounce-back season from the former first-round pick. James Gladstone and Liam Coen have made it clear they believe in his potential and have no interest in trading Thomas Jr.
While it does appear that this is the case, another uninspiring season could drastically change the team’s thought process going forward, and it could look to capitalize on his value while still on a rookie contract. Heading into year three, Thomas Jr. is entering the most important season of his career.
Travis Hunter
The Jaguars have been under scrutiny for the Travis Hunter trade since the day it was made. They gave up their 2025 second-round pick, 2025 fourth-round pick, and a first-round pick in 2026 to make the trade happen.
After seven games of inconsistency in play and snap counts on both sides of the ball, Hunter suffered a season-ending injury. In the 2026 offseason, it was announced that Hunter would be playing primarily as a defensive back, and a part-time wide receiver moving forward.
Through no fault of his own, the selection and usage of Hunter have put a massive target on his back. The Jaguars’ offense took off without him, and the defense remained a consistent unit.
Hunter will have to help anchor an excellent defense as a lockdown corner, while also producing at a high level as a wide receiver to justify the trade in the eyes of some people. If he experiences periods of struggle, or his usage continues to fluctuate on both sides of the ball, the criticism will only grow louder.
Ventrell Miller
Devin Lloyd broke out in 2025, being named to second-team All-Pro, and was one of the top linebackers in football. The Jaguars elected not to re-sign Lloyd in free agency and did not make a selection at linebacker until the seventh round of the draft.
This signals a clear belief in the team’s linebacker unit, as well as Anthony Campanile and his experience as a linebackers coach. While Ventrell Miller has played well in limited snaps, he is slated to take a massive leap in his role and expectations.
The Jaguars defense forced the second-most turnovers in 2025, and a big reason for this was because of Devin Lloyd. If the Jaguars take a step back defensively, Miller could be at the center of the criticism.
Much like Lloyd in 2025, Miller is also entering the final year of his contract. A strong season could see him earn a long-term extension, but if he struggles, he would once again have to fight for a roster spot around the league.
Main Image: Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union