Recognition has arrived for one of the Jacksonville Jaguars' defensive pillars. On January 24, 2026, linebacker Devin Lloyd (2025 Season) was named to the 2026 Pro Bowl Games as a replacement for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ T.J. Watt. This first-ever Pro Bowl selection for Lloyd is a testament to his breakout 2025 campaign and arrives at a perfect time, as the Jaguars front office faces crucial decisions on which young stars to build around.
Lloyd's Ascension and Impending Payday Lloyd’s Pro Bowl season makes him the most prominent internal candidate for a contract extension this offseason. Since being drafted in the first round in 2022, Lloyd has developed into the versatile, playmaking heart of the Jaguars' defense. His performance has now been validated by league-wide recognition. Securing Lloyd with a long-term deal before he enters the final year of his rookie contract in 2026 would be a cornerstone move for General Manager James Gladstone, signaling a commitment to retaining elite, homegrown talent.
The Brian Thomas Jr. Conundrum Lloyd is not alone. Wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (2025 Season), the team's explosive deep threat, is also eligible for an extension. Recent speculation from analysts like ESPN's Bill Barnwell pondered Thomas as a trade candidate, potentially to receiver-needy teams like the Cleveland Browns or Buffalo Bills. However, the consensus, and likely the Jaguars' view, aligns with Barnwell's conclusion: there is "no reason for the Jaguars to trade Thomas Jr." unless a massive, franchise-altering offer materializes. The more probable path is opening extension talks to keep the Lawrence-to-Thomas connection intact for years to come.
Secondary in Flux The most immediate contract crunch comes in the defensive backfield. Three cornerbacks who saw significant playing time in 2025—Greg Newsome II, Montaric Brown (12 starts), and Christian Braswell—are all scheduled to become free agents. Newsome, acquired via trade from Cleveland in 2025, represents the highest-upside play. Brown proved to be a reliable starter, and Braswell provided depth. With limited cap space, the Jaguars cannot retain all three, making the evaluation and negotiation of this position group one of the defining tasks of the offseason. The decisions made here will shape the defense for the 2026 season and beyond.