As underwhelming as the Jacksonville Jaguars were in 2024. They had a few bright spots. One of them was first-year receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who took the league by storm.
Following this impressive rookie campaign, Thomas is already earning comparisons to star wideouts Justin Jefferson and Ja'Marr Chase. And while you could make the case that the praise could be somewhat premature, the former LSU Tiger just reminded everyone in the joint practice against the Miami Dolphins why he's getting the spotlight so often.
Brian Thomas came though for the Jaguars in the Dolphins joint practice
While the Jaguars offense was inconsistent throughout the joint practice, Brian Thomas Jr. had several jaw-dropping plays. Trevor Lawrence looked for him often but failed to connect with him. But he remained unfazed and kept trying.
Then, Lawrence connected Thomas for a 45-yard gain. And then a touchdown. And then another one. This time in the red zone.
Thomas finished the day with two touchdowns and was, without a doubt, his team's most valuable player.
Cameron Wolfe of NFL Media caught wind of Thomas' performance and argued that if the second-year receiver isn't a household name yet, he should be by the end of 2025.
If Brian Thomas Jr. isn’t a household star name yet, he should after this season.
BTJ having a great practice vs. Dolphins today — clear main highlight for Jaguars today.
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) August 21, 2025
Trevor Lawrence, for his part, didn't hesitate to shower his teammate in praise, pointing out that he'll deliver when called upon.
"I mean, you see him do it enough," Lawrence responded when asked what he thought of Thomas stepping up in the joint practice (13:05 mark). "I think you've seen the guy make a top of plays, and it matters. And when the lights are bright, I guess, so to speak, he comes to play. A guy I have a lot of trust, and I think our relationship has grown a lot this offseason in this camp. So it's exciting to feel that relationship coming along, and not just on the field, but off the field because I think it all ties together."
Lawrence continued, "The more you know someone, the more chemistry you have, the more you can talk to someone in a certain way, see what's going on. And I think that's been one of the best parts about camp for me is building those relationships with guys like Brian, and guys like Travis, and Parker's been here, but Dyami, guys that are newer. I think it's been really good. "
Related: It sure looks like the Jaguars are unleashing the Clemson version of Trevor Lawrence
Why Brian Thomas Jr. is poised to be a game-changer for the Jaguars in 2025
Brian Thomas was a Pro Bowl alternate and finished fourth in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting despite the fact that he caught passes from Mac Jones for nearly half the season. On top of opposing defenses often zeroed in on him. That's why he's expected to be even better now that an improved Trevor Lawrence is behind center.
Not surprisingly, the Trevor Lawrence/Brian Thomas Jr. connection was one of the biggest Jaguars storylines in the offseason. Based on how things are playing out, it will be a sight to behold in 2025.
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