The Jacksonville Jaguars decided to keep wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. despite interest from other teams ahead of the NFL trade deadline on November 10. The Jaguars communicated clearly to suitors that Thomas was not available for a trade, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
Thomas, a former first-round pick out of LSU, has experienced a decline since his promising rookie season. His struggles include 10 drops last year and two drops on 22 targets this season, according to Pro Football Reference. Those numbers have contributed to reduced playing time for Thomas as the Jaguars lead the AFC South with a 6-2 record.
The Jaguars were active in the trade market, acquiring defensive players Jessie Bates III, Jordan Davis, and Davon Godchaux on November 9 to address injury issues on the defensive side of the ball. However, when it came to Thomas, the team chose to hold firm.
Head coach Liam Coen has been vocal in his support for Thomas throughout the season, maintaining confidence in the receiver’s potential despite his inconsistencies. The decision to keep Thomas aligns with concerns about the team's receiving depth. Last season, injuries forced the Jaguars to trade for receivers to fill gaps, and although the team drafted Josh Cameron and CJ Williams in April, relying heavily on those rookies if Jakobi Meyers or Parker Washington were sidelined would be risky.
Thomas' speed remains a unique asset on a roster lacking similar explosiveness at wide receiver. His ability to stretch the field is something the Jaguars cannot easily replicate. On October 28, Thomas told reporters he had not lost confidence amid trade rumors, expressing readiness to contribute further this season.
The team’s retention of Thomas indicates a bet on his experience and potential impact as they aim for a deep postseason run. The Jaguars’ activity at the deadline focused on shoring up defense while maintaining offensive continuity with players like Thomas.
According to Yahoo Sports.
