<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-hunter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Travis Hunter</a> has made it clear that he wants to play both wide receiver and cornerback throughout his NFL career. Now, following a serious knee injury that cut his rookie season short, the Jacksonville Jaguars have made a definitive decision on how they will use him in 2026.



When Travis Hunter entered the league, he left no doubt about his intentions to remain a true two-way player on both offense and defense. However, that demanding workload may have come at a cost, as a knee injury abruptly ended his rookie campaign with the Jaguars.



Many analysts believe the heavy snap count played a role in the former Colorado Buffaloes standout’s injury. With the 2026 season approaching, questions surfaced about whether Jacksonville would scale back his role. Those questions have now been answered.



<h2>Jaguars unveil plans for Travis Hunter’s two-way role in 2026</h2>



Shortly after Hunter suffered the knee injury, head coach Liam Coen admitted it was too early to determine whether the rookie would continue playing both positions. Now, general manager James Gladstone has confirmed that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jaguars</a> still plan to use Hunter as both a wide receiver and a cornerback in 2026.



“Beyond that, in the role that he’ll play, we still expect him to play on both sides of the ball,” Gladstone said. “Obviously, you can take a peek at expiring contracts on our roster and which side of the ball has more. Obviously at this point, walking into the offseason, corner is a position where we have a few guys who are on expiring contracts. So, by default, you can expect there to be a higher emphasis on his placement.”



With a full offseason to manage his recovery and conditioning, Jacksonville believes it can better control Hunter’s workload to reduce the risk of future injuries. The organization remains confident that his versatility is a key reason they drafted him so highly.


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<h2>Will Travis Hunter play more offense or defense?</h2>



During his time at Colorado, Hunter excelled on both sides of the ball, and his goal remains unchanged at the professional level. Still, the Jaguars appear to have a preferred role for him.



In his rookie season, Hunter logged over 300 offensive snaps compared to roughly 160 on defense. Those numbers suggest Jacksonville values him primarily as a wide receiver, while still utilizing him as a situational cornerback to provide depth and flexibility in the secondary.

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miniaturas

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> could not make a deep run in the 2026 NFL playoffs. Now that their season has come to an end, a key teammate of Travis Hunter has addressed his future with the franchise as his contract expires this offseason.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/why-is-travis-hunter-not-playing-today-for-jaguars-vs-bills-in-wild-card-of-2026-nfl-playoffs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Travis Hunter, who was unable to play for the Jaguars against the Buffalo Bills in the 2026 playoffs</a>, remains one of the most important pieces of Jacksonville’s long-term plans. However, he is not the only offensive weapon whose future is now in question.



That player is Travis Etienne. With his contract officially expired and free agency approaching, the veteran running back has spoken about where he hopes to play in the 2026 NFL season.



<h2>Travis Etienne sends message to Jaguars ahead of free agency</h2>



The Jaguars enjoyed a strong 2025 NFL season. Although their run ended in the Wild Card round, the team showed clear signs of progress, giving fans hope that Jacksonville can build on that success moving forward.



Unfortunately, the roster could look very different next season, potentially putting those plans at risk. On offense, the Jaguars could lose a crucial teammate of both <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-hunter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Travis Hunter</a> and Trevor Lawrence.



Travis Etienne’s contract has now come to an end, making him one of the more intriguing running backs set to hit the free agency market. Despite the expected interest from teams around the league, Etienne made it clear that his preference is to remain in Jacksonville.


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His comments send a strong message to the Jaguars’ front office: he wants to stay. In a post-game conference, Etienne said that it “would be crazy” if he had played his last game with the Jaguars in the loss against the Bills. 



<h2>The Jaguars should prioritize re-signing Travis Etienne</h2>



According to Spotrac, Travis Etienne is projected to command a two-year, $13 million contract in free agency. Coming off a solid 2025 campaign, his production suggests he will be one of the more sought-after running backs available this offseason.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/12105202/Travis-Etienne-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Travis Etienne" class="wp-image-560704"></figure><figcaption>Travis Etienne Jr. #1 of the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2025.</figcaption></figure>



After missing his rookie season in 2021 due to a foot injury, Etienne has been remarkably productive. He has rushed for over 1,000 yards in three of his four active seasons and has totaled 32 touchdowns during his career.



Those numbers highlight just how valuable Etienne has been to the Jaguars’ offense. With <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/trevor-lawrence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trevor Lawrence</a> and Travis Hunter forming the core of the unit, bringing Etienne back could be a key move in keeping Jacksonville competitive in 2026 and beyond.


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Travis Hunter’s key teammate sends strong message to Jaguars amid potential 2026 exit - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> enter the 2026 offseason with roster planning quietly moving to the forefront. Contract timelines, more than headlines, are beginning to influence how they shape their short- and long-term outlook.



Several familiar names are approaching the end of their deals, including Travis Etienne, placing added weight on internal evaluations. These situations reflect a team balancing recent progress with the realities of future roster construction.



Rather than bold moves, their focus is turning to timing and priorities. The way the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> team approaches these pending contracts may quietly set the tone for the next phase of the franchise.



<h2>Jacksonville Jaguars free agents in 2026</h2>



The Jacksonville Jaguars enter the 2026 offseason with a noteworthy list of pending free agents that could shape the team’s next chapter. Several contributors, from young defenders to key offensive pieces, are set to reach the open market unless extensions are agreed before March, underscoring a broader roster moment rather than a single high-profile decision.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/12105305/Travis-Etienne-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-560705"></figure><figcaption>Travis Etienne of the Jaguars in 2025 (Source: Mike Carlson/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



This wave of expiring contracts arrives at a delicate point for the franchise. After seasons marked by flashes of progress but uneven consistency, Jacksonville must decide whether its current roster core is ready to be preserved or still requires adjustment to truly stabilize the competitive window.



Cap flexibility gives the Jaguars room to maneuver, but previous investments mean each move carries weight. Retaining continuity, reshaping depth, or allowing turnover will not be isolated choices, but part of a larger strategy that could define how Jacksonville positions itself beyond 2026.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Player</td><td>Position</td><td>Free agent type</td></tr><tr><td>Dyami Brown</td><td>WR</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Emmanuel Ogbah</td><td>ED</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Devin Lloyd</td><td>LB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Travis Etienne</td><td>RB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Andrew Wingard</td><td>S</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Greg Newsome</td><td>CB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Tim Patrick</td><td>WR</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Austin Johnson</td><td>DL</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Dennis Gardeck</td><td>LB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Dawuane Smoot</td><td>ED</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>DeeJay Dallas</td><td>RB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Christian Braswell</td><td>CB</td><td>Restricted</td></tr><tr><td>Montaric Brown</td><td>CB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption>(Source: Spotrac)</figcaption></figure>

Jaguars free agents in 2026: Travis Etienne and other key players out of contract in Jacksonville - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/buffalo-bills">Buffalo Bills</a> defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 27–24 in the Wild Card Round of the 2026 NFL playoffs, securing a spot in the next round behind an outstanding performance from quarterback Josh Allen, who reached a historic milestone in the victory.



Allen completed 28 of 35 passes for 273 yards and one passing touchdown. He also carried the ball 11 times for 33 yards and two rushing touchdowns. According to OptaSTATS, Allen became the first quarterback in NFL history to complete at least 80 percent of his passes while also scoring multiple rushing touchdowns in a playoff game.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/josh-allen">Allen</a>’s versatility as both a passer and runner was what earned him the 2024 NFL MVP award, and he carried that success into the 2025 season. He entered the playoffs with 3,668 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, while adding 579 rushing yards and 14 rushing touchdowns.



As the Bills advanced in the postseason, they continued to rely heavily on Allen’s leadership. Any injury concerns surrounding the quarterback were eased following the win, as he appeared fully healthy and ready to lead Buffalo deeper into the playoffs.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="545454" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/14161244/josh-allen-7-1920x1080.webp" alt="Josh Allen Buffalo Bills" class="wp-image-545454"></figure><figcaption>Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>How the game unfolded</h2>



After Jaguars kicker Matt Prater opened the scoring with a 50-yard field goal, the Bills and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars">Jaguars</a> traded touchdowns heading into halftime. The game remained tightly contested in the second half, with both teams scoring 17 points. 


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Josh Allen rushed for his second touchdown with 1:04 remaining, and the Bills sealed the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> Wild Card victory with an interception of Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence. With the win, the Bills clinched a spot in the Divisional Round as the No. 6 seed.

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The Jacksonville Jaguars faced the Buffalo Bills with high hopes of winning a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>. In Liam Coen’s first season as head coach, their record was 13-4, earning the AFC South title.



Trevor Lawrence entered as the quarterback with the best numbers in the entire NFL in the second half of the season and seemed ready to take the next big step with the Jaguars. All of this was thanks to an offense that changed after the trade for Jakobi Meyers.



Nevertheless, with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Patrick Mahomes</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a> out of the playoffs, Josh Allen perhaps had the greatest opportunity of his career to compete for a championship. That was proven with an epic comeback to secure a 27–24 win in Jacksonville.



<h2>Jaguars out of the playoffs with loss to Bills</h2>



The Jaguars are out of the playoffs after losing by three points to the Bills. Trevor Lawrence had a chance to tie the game on the final drive but was intercepted. In addition, in a very unusual moment, Cam Little missed a field goal in the final seconds of the first half.


 

 


<h2>What’s next for Bills?</h2>



The Bills’ next game will be in the Divisional Round, although their opponent is yet to be determined. It could be the Denver Broncos, the Pittsburgh Steelers, or the Houston Texans. Allen will have to win on the road again.


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Are Jaguars eliminated from 2026 NFL playoffs after loss against Bills in Wild Card round? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/john-harbaugh">John Harbaugh</a> could be the next head coach of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/buffalo-bills">Buffalo Bills</a> if they lose to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the Wild Card round of the 2026 playoffs. According to a report by Mike Florio, Sean McDermott would be at risk.



“Watch the Packers. Watch the Bills. They lose this weekend, watch what happens next with one of those two teams. The one that ultimately hires John Harbaugh is going to be the one that fires its current coach. I can’t rule out the possibility if the Bills and Packers lose. I can’t rule out the possibility that they’ll both fire their coaches.”



After the Ravens surprisingly parted ways with Harbaugh, there is no doubt that he has become the most sought-after name on the coaching carousel. If the Bills have an opening, it would be a huge opportunity to pursue another <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>, this time alongside Josh Allen.



<h2>Bills could fire head coach Sean McDermott</h2>



The Bills could fire Sean McDermott with an early playoff exit, as it would be seen as wasting Josh Allen’s prime. With John Harbaugh available, a change at the top would be viewed as an upgrade.


 

 


Florio mentioned that all the rumors surrounding Harbaugh are a factor that could add significant pressure on McDermott ahead of that dangerous road matchup against the Jaguars in the Wild Card round.



“If this is the play and if it all comes down to what the team does this weekend, that could be what happens next. And if I’m Matt LaFleur or Sean McDermott, I’m pissed that I got to worry about this now thanks to this news that’s been generated directly or indirectly by John Harbaugh.”


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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/buffalo-bills">Buffalo Bills</a> began the season as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> favorites, but as the weeks went by, that status started to weaken. That led to the New England Patriots taking the AFC East from them after five consecutive divisional titles.



Despite the fact that Josh Allen put up very solid numbers with 3,668 yards, 25 touchdowns, and only 10 interceptions, turnovers began to pile up in the second half of the schedule and the defense failed to respond in clutch moments. That increased doubts about this team’s potential.



Now, with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Patrick Mahomes</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a> out of the playoffs, this appears to be a major opportunity for Allen to finally win a championship. In addition, other stars like Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson will also not be in the postseason. The first challenge in the Wild Card round will be very difficult against the Jaguars.



<h2>What happens if Bills lose today against Jaguars in NFL playoffs?</h2>



If the Bills lose to the Jaguars today in the playoffs, they will be officially eliminated. Then, as the No. 3 seed in the AFC, Trevor Lawrence and Jacksonville could face the New England Patriots, the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Houston Texans in the Divisional round. By the way, a loss could also jeopardize Sean McDermott’s future as head coach in Buffalo because John Harbaugh is available.


 

 


<h2>What happens if the Bills win over Jaguars in Wild Card round?</h2>



If the Bills get a win over the Jaguars in the Wild Card round, they will clinch a spot in the Divisional round. Then, as the No. 6 seed, they could face the Denver Broncos or the winner of the matchup between the Steelers and Texans. In either scenario, they would play on the road next week.


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<h2>What happens if Bills and Jaguars tie today today in NFL playoffs?</h2>



If the Bills and the Jaguars tie today in the Wild Card round of the 2026 NFL playoffs, the game would go to overtime to determine a winner. Each team is now guaranteed at least one possession. The only exception is if the defense records a safety on the opening drive.



<h2>What happens if the Jaguars lose today against Bills in Wild Card round of 2026 playoffs?</h2>



If the Jacksonville Jaguars lose today against the Buffalo Bills, they will be officially eliminated despite a great season with a 13-4 record and as AFC South champions.

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> will face the Buffalo Bills in the Wild Card round of the 2026 NFL playoffs. Unfortunately for the AFC South team, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-hunter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Travis Hunter</a> will not be available to play, but why is the rookie sidelined?



In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Jaguars traded up to secure the second overall pick, which they used to select Travis Hunter. His rare versatility as both a cornerback and wide receiver made him one of the most intriguing prospects in the class.



Unfortunately, the former Colorado standout suffered a knee injury in late October. He underwent surgery on November 11 to repair his LCL, though tests confirmed there was no damage to his ACL—a positive sign for his long-term recovery.



<h2>Will Travis Hunter return for the Super Bowl?</h2>



No, Travis Hunter is not expected to be ready even if the Jaguars advance to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> LX. The two-way star was given a six-month recovery timeline, which would place his return around late April.



According to reports, Hunter could be cleared in time for training camp in May. However, the injury has raised concerns among scouts, as it could force him to adjust his playing style moving forward.



Hunter has repeatedly stated that he intends to continue playing both cornerback and wide receiver throughout his career. Still, the physical demands of playing on both sides of the ball are significant, and that workload may have contributed to the knee injury he suffered this season.


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<h3>The Jaguars are strong on offense</h3>



Despite Travis Hunter being sidelined, the Jaguars still boast a solid offense led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/trevor-lawrence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trevor Lawrence</a>. The quarterback has enjoyed an impressive season, consistently connecting with multiple weapons at his disposal.



Brian Thomas Jr. and Jakobi Meyers serve as the team’s primary wide receivers, with Parker Washington and Tim Patrick providing depth behind them. Tight end Brenton Strange has also been a reliable option for Lawrence, contributing not only as a pass catcher but also as an effective blocker.


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Surprisingly one of the best divisions in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> this season, the AFC South ended the regular season with two divisional matchups. The Houston Texans faced the Indianapolis Colts while the Jacksonville Jaguars played the Tennessee Titans.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jaguars</a> destroyed the Titans 41-7 to secure the divisional title. Meanwhile, the Texans and Colts had a much better game that was decided in the final seconds of the game. It ended 38-30 in favor of Houston. These are the AFC South final standings:



<ol><li>Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4)</li><li><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-texans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Texans</a> (12-5)</li><li>Indianapolis Colts (8-9)</li><li>Tennessee Titans (3-14)</li></ol>



<h2>The Texans and Jaguars are red-hot coming into the playoffs</h2>



The Jacksonville Jaguars are the dark horse in the AFC but Houston is not far behind that statement. The Texans will have a road game in the Wild Card round against the winner of Baltimore vs. Pittsburgh on Sunday Night Football. Despite it being an away game, the likelihood is they will be the favorites. They come into the playoffs with a nine-game win streak.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260104_BUS_556456_cj-stroud-3_7585356c.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="C.J. Stroud #7 of the Houston Texans" class="wp-image-552080"></figure><figcaption>C.J. Stroud #7 of the Houston Texans</figcaption></figure>



Jacksonville is riding an eight-game win streak and will have a home game against either the Chargers (who they already beat) or the Bills. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/trevor-lawrence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trevor Lawrence</a> is playing his best football and he ended Week 18 with a 22/30 completion for 255 yards and three touchdowns. Oh, and by the way, the Jaguars might have the best kicker in the NFL in Cam Little, who is slamming 67-yarders like it’s nothing.


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<h2>The AFC South could be prominent in the playoffs once again</h2>



The last time an AFC South team was close to getting to a Super Bowl was in 2019, when the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-titans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Titans</a> lost in the AFC Championship Game to the Chiefs. In 2017, the Jaguars lost the conference championship to the Patriots.



To find an AFC South team on the Super Bowl, we have to go back to 2009, when the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colts</a> lost to the Saints. To find an AFC South team winning the Super Bowl, we have to go back to the 2006 season, where the Colts beat the Bears. That was the first ring of Hall of Famer Peyton Manning.

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AFC South final standings updated after Texans-Colts and Jaguars-Titans in 2025 NFL Week 18 - Bolavip US

The 2025 NFL regular season is slowly coming to a close, and if there’s one team that can truly be called a surprise, it’s the Jacksonville Jaguars. Led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/trevor-lawrence">Trevor Lawrence</a>, the Jags will look to secure their best possible position in the AFC when they face the Tennessee Titans.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/liam-coen">Liam Coen</a> has made it clear that, despite this being his debut season as an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> head coach, he has plenty of potential to offer. In fact, his impressive campaign speaks for itself, and no one can take away his dream of continuing to make steady progress.



Facing them are the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-titans">Titans</a>, who struggled week after week, with Cam Ward having a tough time finding his footing in his rookie season, and even parting ways with Brian Callahan midseason. Already eliminated from playoff contention, their best option now is to aim for a high pick in the upcoming draft.



<h2>What happens if the Jaguars lose to the Titans?</h2>



If the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars">Jaguars</a> lose to the Titans, their No. 3 seed is in serious jeopardy. Should a Jacksonville loss be paired with a victory by the Houston Texans (11-5) over the Colts, the Texans would claim the AFC South division title. This would cause the Jaguars to tumble from the third seed down to a Wild Card spot, forcing them to play their opening playoff game on the road.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260104_BUS_556053_jacksonville-jaguars-tennesse-titans_edbec82d.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jacksonville Jaguars vs Tennessee Titans" class="wp-image-556095"></figure><figcaption>Trevor Lawrence #16 of the Jacksonville Jaguars.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What happens if the Jaguars defeat the Titans?</h2>


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If the Jaguars defeat the Titans, they will finish the season with a 13-4 record, keeping their hopes alive for a higher seed in the AFC. However, they remain behind the Patriots and Broncos (both 13-3 entering today) in the standings, meaning Jacksonville would still need both teams to lose their respective games to move up from the No. 3 seed and potentially challenge for a first-round bye.



<h2>AFC South standings before Week 18</h2>



<ul><li>Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4)</li><li>Houston Texans (11-5)</li><li>Indianapolis Colts (8-8)</li><li>Tennessee Titans (3-13)</li></ul>

What happens if Jaguars lose or win vs Titans today in Week 18 of 2025 NFL season?

What happens if Jaguars lose or win vs Titans today in Week 18 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> history is filled with dynasties and dramatic turnarounds, but it also carries the weight of long, unforgiving losing streaks. In a league built on parity, some franchises have still endured stretches where defeats piled up week after week.



These were shaped by rebuilding years, quarterback instability, front-office missteps and seasons where hope faded early. Each loss added pressure, turning Sundays into tests of patience rather than expectation.



Among those dark chapters, one franchise stands apart for how long the losses lasted. Its streak has become a benchmark for futility, often cited whenever teams flirt with history for the wrong reasons.



<h2>Which NFL teams have the longest losing streaks?</h2>



Some of the NFL’s most stubborn skid marks come from eras long past, where franchises nearly vanished from the win column. The Chicago Cardinals, now the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arizona-cardinals">Arizona Cardinals</a>, endured the longest losing streak in league history, dropping 29 games across four seasons from 1942 to 1945 before finally breaking through with a victory at Wrigley Field.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260101_BUS_554615_Tampa-Bay-Buccaneers-1_8a2b5990.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-554637"></figure><figcaption>Morris Owens of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1977 (Source: Tampa Bay Buccaneers)</figcaption></figure>



That sequence, deep in the heart of World War II, stands as a stark reminder of how tumultuous the league could be in its early decades. Not far behind in infamy are the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a>, whose fledgling franchise lost 26 straight games through their first two seasons in 1976 and 1977, a mark that still defines the modern era’s worst skid.



Expansion woes, talent gaps and the brutal grind of the schedule combined to keep Tampa Bay searching for answers well into its early history. The NFL’s recent decades haven’t been immune to misery. 



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> suffered a 20-game losing streak spanning the 2020 and 2021 seasons, illustrating how quickly a combination of injuries, coaching turmoil and roster turnover can sabotage a young franchise’s momentum.



Losing streaks are more than just stats; they often reflect seismic shifts within a team’s structure. Whether rooted in expansion disadvantages, front-office dysfunction or cascading injuries, these streaks underscore how fleeting success can be in a league built on parity.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Team</td><td>Season(s)</td><td>Losing streak</td></tr><tr><td>Chicago Cardinals</td><td>1942 1943 1944 1945</td><td>29 games</td></tr><tr><td>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</td><td>1976 1977</td><td>26 games</td></tr><tr><td>Jacksonville Jaguars</td><td>2020 2021</td><td>20 games</td></tr><tr><td>Oakland Raiders</td><td>1961 1962</td><td>19 games</td></tr><tr><td>Detroit Lions</td><td>2007 2008 2009</td><td>18 games</td></tr><tr><td>Houston Oilers</td><td>1972 1973</td><td>17 games</td></tr><tr><td>Dayton Triangles</td><td>1927 1928 1929</td><td>17 games</td></tr><tr><td>Washington Redskins</td><td>1960 1961</td><td>17 games</td></tr><tr><td>Houston Oilers</td><td>1982 1983</td><td>17 games</td></tr><tr><td>St. Louis Rams</td><td>2008 2009</td><td>17 games</td></tr><tr><td>Cleveland Browns</td><td>2015 2016</td><td>17 games</td></tr><tr><td>Cleveland Browns</td><td>2016 2017</td><td>17 games</td></tr><tr><td>Rochester Jeffersons</td><td>1922 1923 1924 1925</td><td>16 games</td></tr><tr><td>Pittsburgh Steelers</td><td>1969 1970</td><td>16 games</td></tr><tr><td>Miami Dolphins</td><td>2006 2007</td><td>16 games</td></tr><tr><td>Oakland Raiders</td><td>2013 2014</td><td>16 games</td></tr><tr><td>Buffalo Bills</td><td>1970 1971</td><td>15 games</td></tr><tr><td>Carolina Panthers</td><td>2001</td><td>14 games</td></tr><tr><td>Philadelphia Eagles</td><td>1936 1937</td><td>14 games</td></tr><tr><td>Pittsburgh Steelers</td><td>1943 1944 1945</td><td>14 games</td></tr><tr><td>Buffalo Bills</td><td>1976 1977</td><td>14 games</td></tr><tr><td>New Orleans Saints</td><td>1980</td><td>14 games</td></tr><tr><td>Baltimore Colts</td><td>1981</td><td>14 games</td></tr><tr><td>New England Patriots</td><td>1990</td><td>14 games</td></tr><tr><td>Houston Texans</td><td>2013</td><td>14 games</td></tr><tr><td>Chicago Bears</td><td>2022 2023</td><td>14 games</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/liam-coen">Liam Coen</a>’s first season as head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars is no longer just impressive, it’s historic. Jacksonville enters the final week of the regular season at 12-4, riding a seven-game winning streak and firmly positioned as one of the NFL’s most dangerous teams heading into January with a healthy Trevor Lawrence.



What Coen has done this quickly is virtually unheard of. Adam Schefter put it plainly on X: “Jaguars HC Liam Coen is now the only first-year head coach in NFL history to win 12-plus games after taking over a team that had four or fewer wins in the prior season.” The Jaguars were a reset project a year ago. Now, they’re contenders.



The turnaround hasn’t been built on hype or shortcuts. Even after a midseason stretch where <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars">Jacksonville</a> dropped three of four games, Coen kept the focus narrow. The response was emphatic, seven straight wins with Lawrence posting 16 TDs and only 5 INTs.



<h2>Trevor Lawrence is thriving inside Coen’s vision</h2>



Much of Jacksonville’s surge traces directly to Trevor Lawrence playing the best football of his career under Coen. According to PFF, since Week 13, Lawrence hasn’t committed a single turnover-worthy play, earning a 91.6 PFF passing grade and a 120.8 passer rating, numbers that place him among the NFL’s elite over that stretch.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Trevor Lawrence is a league winner. Plain and simple.<a href="https://t.co/qmhfKUf9Qq">pic.twitter.com/qmhfKUf9Qq</a>— NFL Fantasy Football (@NFLFantasy) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLFantasy/status/2005366710464081962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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What makes the jump more striking is how it’s happening. The Jaguars don’t feature a star-studded receiving corps, yet Coen’s structure has unlocked efficiency and confidence. Lawrence is operating under center more than ever with 3,752 yards, 26 touchdowns and 12 interceptions with just one in December.


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Jacksonville’s offensive design reflects that balance. Coen leans heavily on 11 personnel from under center, stresses defensive backs with spacing, and uses screen passes as extensions of the run game. The result is an offense that stays unpredictable as the 9th best in the league and a quarterback who looks fully in control with an 7.1 average yards gained per pass attempt.

Liam Coen makes NFL history as Trevor Lawrence delivers strong season for Jaguars - Bolavip US

Week 17 was crucial for most divisions, including the AFC South. The Houston Texans eagerly awaited the outcome of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> vs. Indianapolis Colts game, as it had direct implications on the standings heading into the final week.



The game unfolded just as expected: tightly contested. In fact, up until the 7th minute of the final quarter, the score was tied at 17. A Jaguars field goal broke the deadlock, and another late in the game by Cam Little secured <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/trevor-lawrence">Trevor Lawrence</a>‘s team a crucial 23–17 victory.



With this result, Liam Coen’s squad remains first in its division, holding a slim lead over its closest rival, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-texans">Texans</a>. Meanwhile, the Colts and Titans were already eliminated from playoff contention.



<h2>AFC South standings after Week 17</h2>



With the final result of the dramatic game between the Jaguars and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Colts</a>, here are the current standings in the AFC South with just one game remaining. It’s worth noting that the Titans lost at home at Nissan Stadium to the Saints, marking their 13th defeat of the season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251228_BUS_552881_jacksonville-jaguars-3_2a1a1ef1.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jacksonville Jaguars" class="wp-image-552939"></figure><figcaption>Trevor Lawrence (L) #16 of the Jacksonville Jaguars.</figcaption></figure>



<ul><li>Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4)</li><li>Houston Texans (11-5)</li><li>Indianapolis Colts (8-8)</li><li>Tennessee Titans (3-13)</li></ul>


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<h2>Week 18 of the AFC South</h2>



The final standings of the AFC South will be decided in Week 18, as the Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans battle for the division crown. The Jaguars will return home to EverBank Stadium to host the Tennessee Titans, needing a victory to secure the title and the No. 3 seed in the AFC. 



Meanwhile, the Texans will welcome the Indianapolis Colts to NRG Stadium; should Jacksonville stumble, a Houston win would allow the Texans to leapfrog them and claim the division. These two matchups represent the last hurdle in a high-stakes race that has defined the divisional race all season.

AFC South standings updated after Colts vs Jaguars in 2025 NFL Week 17

AFC South standings updated after Colts vs Jaguars in 2025 NFL Week 17 - Bolavip US

For some teams, only two games remain before the end of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> regular season. The Jacksonville Jaguars have undoubtedly emerged as one of the league’s biggest surprises this year and will look to further improve their winning record when they take on the Indianapolis Colts.



What <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/liam-coen">Liam Coen</a> has accomplished in his first season as head coach has been nothing short of remarkable, with many already positioning him as a serious Coach of the Year candidate. Entering Week 17, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars">Jaguars</a> boast an 11–4 record and sit atop the AFC South.



The matchup against the Colts shapes up as another major divisional test for a team that has clearly moved beyond being a pleasant surprise and now has its sights set on making a deep run this season — and perhaps even dreaming of a long-awaited trip to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>.



<h2>What happens if Jaguars lose to Colts?</h2>



If the Jaguars fall to the Colts today, their record would drop to 11–5, leaving them tied with the Texans. While their playoff spot would remain secure, their position in the seeding would be seriously jeopardized, especially with contenders like the Patriots, Bills, and the Texans themselves in the mix.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251228_BUS_552589_jacksonville-jaguars-2_4e0c5bfd.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jacksonville Jaguars" class="wp-image-541295"></figure><figcaption>Jourdan Lewis #2 of the Jacksonville Jaguars.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Last meeting vs. the Colts</h2>


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In their Week 14 matchup at EverBank Stadium, the Jacksonville Jaguars delivered a dominant 36-19 victory over the Indianapolis Colts. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/trevor-lawrence">Trevor Lawrence</a> shined with a stellar performance, throwing two touchdown passes and leading a high-powered offense that took control from the start. This win allowed Jacksonville to sweep the season series and solidified their place at the top of the AFC South.

What happens if Jaguars lose to Colts today in Week 17 of 2025 NFL season?

What happens if Jaguars lose to Colts today in Week 17 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jacksonville-jaguars" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> had only one Pro Bowler despite their great season. One of Trevor Lawrence‘s teammates shared his sentiment about this fact, hence fueling the will to win for the team as they feel disrespected.



The only Pro Bowler on the Jaguars roster is long snapper Ross Matiscik. The team is 11-4 and is one of the most successful stories of this season. After feeling snubbed, one of the best players on the team, Devin Lloyd, opened up about it.



“You always use&nbsp;that type stuff as fuel,” Lloyd said to Mark Long of the Associated Press. “At the end of the day, you got to channel it the right way… Anything you can use as an edge. I don’t think I was the only one that kind of got snubbed. We’re an 11-4 team, and a lot of guys put a lot of good stuff on tape.” It’s safe to say the Jaguars are bound to prove all the doubters wrong



<h2>Devin Lloyd is clearly a name that should be in the Pro Bowl</h2>



At 6’3″, Lloyd is a huge linebacker and this is his fourth year in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>. Lloyd has been a huge addition to this roster as he has surpassed 110 combined tackles in his three previous years. This year he won’t get to that mark, but he is second in the NFL in interceptions. His focus has changed into being a menace in zone coverage. He feels snubbed and he might have a good case to feel disrespected.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251227_BUS_552153_devin-lloyd_4ae814cf.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Devin Lloyd #0 of the Jacksonville Jaguars" class="wp-image-552191"></figure><figcaption>Devin Lloyd #0 of the Jacksonville Jaguars</figcaption></figure>



Lloyd has been so good in coverage, that he is allowing a 59.8 passer rating when targeted by opposing quarterbacks. He is such a big linebacker that he is physically superior to wide receivers and he is able to win one-on-ones. Lloyd has been a standout on defense for this team.


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<h2>It’s not the first time the Jaguars have felt disrespected</h2>



A week ago, Broncos head coach Sean Payton called the Jaguars a “small market team,” something that the team took offense to. The Jaguars responded by becoming the only team in the 2025 NFL season to beat the Broncos in Denver. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/trevor-lawrence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trevor Lawrence</a> is also playing the best football of his life in the last month, so this team is really a dark horse.


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Trevor Lawrence’s key teammate reveals fueling factor for the Jaguars as team heads to the playoffs

Trevor Lawrence's key teammate reveals fueling factor for the Jaguars as team heads to the playoffs - Bolavip US

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