Every NFL contract eventually comes to a crossroads, and the Jacksonville Jaguars have a few players approaching that moment as we enter the 2025 season. Some are entering the final year of longer contracts, while others are back in Jacksonville on one-year prove-it deals.
With a new coaching staff and considerable potential, Jacksonville is poised to become a dominant force in the AFC. High hopes, yes. The margin for error is thin, and showing consistency, durability, and impact will determine whether these three players secure a new deal—or watch the team move on without them.
Jaguars defensive end Dawuane Smoot
Fans love Smoot, and Smoot loves Jacksonville. He was drafted by the Jaguars in 2017 and spent seven years with the team before his one-year stint in Buffalo last season. When speaking with 1010XL radio, he told Mia O'Brien, "Some hard negotiations, but we finally figured it out, and I'm home" (0:30 mark). He clearly wants to be here—I mean, the man built a school in Jacksonville.
But the NFL is a business, and production earns contracts. As much as fans would love to see Smooth remain long enough to retire as a Jaguar, he has to earn his spot on the roster just like everyone else. He now sits on a one-year "prove-it" deal. Here's hoping he pulls it off.
Jaguars defensive end Dawuane Smoot relishes a return home, different defensive scheme https://t.co/sRsNcAX7Lr
— Florida Times-Union (@jaxdotcom) August 8, 2025
Related:3 notable Jaguars players who will get a new contract in 2025
Jaguars running back Travis Etienne
This feels like a long shot, regardless of how well he plays. The NFL already undervalues the running back position, and the Jaguars may have three more potential starters on the roster already. Sure, two of them are rookies and have yet to play a regular-season game, but third-year veteran Tank Bigsby has shown he's capable of carrying the workload. Last year, he shared the backfield with Etienne, toting the rock 168 times for 766 yards and seven touchdowns.
Regardless of how well Etienne plays, he might find himself playing the free agency game next season.
Jaguars safety Andrew Wingard
Few Jaguars have embodied the “prove-it” mindset more than seven-year veteran Andrew Wingard. Once viewed as a depth piece and special teams contributor, Dewey has steadily carved out a role in the secondary with his versatility, energy, and physical style of play. His 2025 preseason has only strengthened his case, as he’s shown improved coverage awareness while continuing to bring the hard-hitting presence that makes him a fan favorite.
But entering this season, the challenge is different—Wingard isn’t just proving he belongs on the roster; he’s making his claim for a third contract. While the Jaguars aren't exactly bursting with talent at the safety position, he's still going to have to convince the new leadership to keep him around.
Related: Micah Parsons saga just gave Jaguars fans flashbacks of Jalen Ramsey
Final thoughts
The NFL is built on short windows of opportunity, and for a few Jaguars, 2025 is the year that will define their futures. Prove their worth, and they could lock in stability. Fall short, and the team will quickly look for younger, cheaper, or more reliable options. It’s a make-or-break season where performance and production must speak louder than potential.
Here are other Jaguars stories you may also like: