Jaguars May Explore Trade for Receiver Brian Thomas Jr. Amidst Declining Role
Multiple league executives believe the Jaguars will consider trading the 2024 Pro Bowl receiver as his role on offense has diminished.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are reportedly considering making wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. available for trade, with multiple league executives believing the team will seriously explore moving the 2024 Pro Bowl selection at the upcoming deadline. This potential shift comes after Thomas's role on offense has significantly decreased.
Thomas, 24, was benched for the entire second half of the Jaguars' recent 34-31 loss to the Houston Texans in London. In that game, he played only 15 offensive snaps and did not record a catch on two targets. His production this season has been a sharp decline from his rookie campaign, with just nine receptions for 105 yards and one touchdown through six games.
This marks a dramatic turn for a player whom the Jaguars selected with the No. 23 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Thomas had an impressive rookie season, hauling in 87 passes for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl selection. However, his performance dipped last season, totaling 48 receptions for 707 yards and two scores in 14 games.
Currently, Thomas appears to be behind teammates Parker Washington and Jakobi Meyers on the Jaguars' depth chart. The emergence of two-way player Travis Hunter in the passing game has also seemingly impacted Thomas's opportunities.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported on Saturday that teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers are in the market for receiving help, though neither team has been officially linked to a trade for Thomas. Previously, the Jaguars had indicated Thomas was a key part of their future plans, with general manager James Gladstone stating in March that the receiver was integral to the team's long-term vision.