The future of football in Jacksonville is shaping up dramatically as the Jacksonville Jaguars reveal key details about the 2026 season--the final campaign before a historic stadium transformation. The team announced comprehensive updates on ticketing plans, reduced stadium capacity, and that the entire 2027 home schedule will take place outside Jacksonville due to the ambitious "Stadium of the Future" renovation project.
Reduced Stadium Capacity in 2026
EverBank Stadium, soon to be renamed, will operate at a reduced capacity of 42,507 seats during the 2026 season. This reduction is necessary to allow construction crews to work safely on the $1.4 billion renovation project without completely shutting down the stadium. The project includes an extensive rebuild of the stadium bowl, premium seating areas, and the iconic shade structure, marking one of the most significant upgrades in Jaguars history.
To accommodate these changes, the Jaguars are implementing a tiered ticketing approach. Current Season Ticket Members have priority to renew their seats for 2026, recognizing fan loyalty in a limited seating environment. After renewals close, a small number of new Season Tickets will be made available to fans on the waiting list. Single-game tickets will be extremely limited and expected to be in high demand. Jaguars leadership encourages fans to secure their spots through the Season Ticket Member program to ensure attendance during this unique season.
Continued Commitment to London Games
In line with the NFL's International Series tradition, the Jaguars will play two of their "home" games in London in 2026. This extends the team's commitment to its international fanbase, even amid major renovation disruptions. These London contests reduce the number of games played in Jacksonville under the current stadium setup to seven instead of the usual eight.
For Season Ticket Members, the team announced a credit system for the London games applied to their 2026 billing. This transparency in financial adjustments underscores the Jaguars' dedication to maintaining strong relationships with their most devoted supporters as the stadium transformation unfolds.
A Season Away in 2027
Perhaps the most groundbreaking news concerns the 2027 NFL season. Due to the scale of the renovation requiring demolition and total rebuild of key stadium sections, the Jaguars confirmed that every 2027 home game will be played at an alternate site, yet to be announced. With construction phases incompatible with hosting NFL games, relocation for a single full season is mandatory.
While the team did not disclose the 2027 venue, speculation ranges from neutral sites in the United States to a prolonged stay in London--leveraging their deep international ties. The Jaguars' communication emphasized the uncertainty around the where, focusing instead on the why and plans to prioritize Season Ticket Members with access and benefits once details are finalized.
Balancing Fans, Construction, and Future Vision
Jacksonville Jaguars President Mark Lamping stated the team is committed to providing certainty and clarity during this transition. By announcing these details ahead of schedule, the organization empowers fans to plan, whether financially or emotionally, for the coming seasons of change.
Operationally, the franchise faces a complex challenge of ensuring smooth logistics for the 2027 displaced season while managing construction timelines to deliver a world-class venue. The team is preparing to deliver ticketing and fan engagement solutions tailored to this unprecedented phase.
The Vision for the "Stadium of the Future"
This transformative project aims to secure the Jaguars' presence in Northeast Florida for decades. The new stadium will offer state-of-the-art amenities, enhanced revenue opportunities critical to building a competitive roster, and a revitalized downtown Jacksonville atmosphere.
The 2026 season thus serves as both a farewell to the old stadium--where memories from the franchise's inaugural years through the 2017 AFC Championship run were created--and a preview of the future. Fans will have one last chance to experience games in the current configuration before the stadium's demolition and rebirth.
International Identity and Future Opportunities
The ongoing participation in the London games underscores the Jaguars' unique international brand. The 2027 temporary relocation could open fresh possibilities, potentially increasing the franchise's footprint overseas and expanding its global fanbase.
Conclusion
The Jaguars' roadmap for 2026 and 2027 presents a clear path through a challenging but exciting transition. Reduced seats, ticketing constraints, and a season away from Jacksonville represent short-term sacrifices framed by long-term gain. The organization's transparency and loyalty to fans provide reassurance that when the new stadium opens in 2028, Jacksonville will welcome back a stronger, reinvigorated Jaguars team and fan base.
The countdown to a new era of Jaguars football has begun, with detailed plans now in place, setting the stage for an unprecedented transformation that promises to elevate the team's profile and fan experience well into the future.