One of the NFL’s biggest surprises in 2025 also came with one of its biggest disappointments. The Jacksonville Jaguars surged to an AFC South title, but their star 2024 first-round pick took a significant step backward. After a monster rookie season, Brian Thomas Jr. entered the year with sky-high expectations.
Instead, Thomas finished with just 48 receptions for 707 yards and two touchdowns. His receptions and receiving yards were nearly cut in half, while his touchdown total plummeted from 10 to two. The Jaguars may not be concerned, but Thomas almost certainly wants to bounce back in a big way.
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So far, the early signs are encouraging.
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. runs against the Tennessee Titans
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (7) rushes for yards during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars held off the Titans 20-13. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union] | Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
According to reports, Thomas has arrived at offseason workouts with renewed focus and appears to have returned to the form that made him one of the NFL’s most exciting young receivers. In fact, one report suggested he looks even more impressive than he did during his rookie offseason.
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“Thomas’ practice on Monday was reminiscent of his rookie year joint practice against the Tampa Bay Buccaneeers. Over and over and over, cornerbacks tried to keep up with his speed and they just couldn’t. Jarrian Jones fell victim to a deep touchdown early in practice in which Thomas created seperation with ease and Lawrence simply dropped the ball right into his hands.” John Shipley of Sports Illustrated wrote.
If there is a report capable of easing concerns among Jaguars fans, it’s this one.
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Of course, the real work still lies ahead. Thomas must translate this renewed approach into production on the field — not only for himself, but for the Jaguars as a whole.
Nov 30, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (7) runs with the ball after a made catch against the Tennessee Titans during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Jacksonville’s leading receiver last season was one of the team’s biggest surprises: Parker Washington. He eclipsed 800 receiving yards and added five touchdowns. While Washington’s emergence was a positive development, he is not the Jaguars’ No. 1 receiver. That role belongs to Thomas. Whether his struggles stemmed from scheme, inconsistency, or other factors, Jacksonville needs much more from him moving forward.
A breakout season from Thomas would not only elevate his career trajectory, but it could also help push the Jaguars into legitimate contention. Trevor Lawrence is entering his sixth NFL season and has reached the postseason only twice. He and head coach Liam Coen would be wise to make Thomas a focal point of the offense.
Thomas possesses all the traits of a top-tier NFL wide receiver. This season is critical for both him and the Jaguars. If they can’t turn their potential into something special in 2026, serious questions will begin to emerge about whether Jacksonville can ever take the next step.