Brian Thomas Jr., who emerged as a standout rookie for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024, faced a severe preseason hit that has raised alarms about the team’s offensive prospects. During the preseason matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday, Thomas Jr. took a significant hit from safety Juan Thornhill, a moment that could have wider implications for quarterback Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars’ hopes this year. The wide receiver had an extraordinary rookie season, setting franchise records with 87 receptions, 1,282 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns, making him a crucial piece of the Jaguars’ offense heading into his sophomore year.
Preseason game details highlight offensive struggles and early performances
In the first half against the Steelers, the Jaguars trailed 9-14. Trevor Lawrence completed six of seven passes for 43 yards, while Brian Thomas Jr. managed only a single eight-yard catch. Joseph Cephus led Jacksonville with three receptions totaling 25 yards. The Steelers saw strong contributions from Mason Rudolph, who completed nine of ten passes for 85 yards and a touchdown to tight end Darnell Washington. Backup quarterback Skylar Thompson also connected with Max Hurleman before halftime.
Insights on Travis Hunter’s offensive development and growing chemistry with Trevor Lawrence
Beyond the hit, Thomas Jr. recently discussed the influence of new offensive weapons on the Jaguars’ future. Two-way star Travis Hunter, a Heisman Trophy winner, has been developing rapidly as a player and could provide much-needed support in 2025. During a recent practice interview with ESPN’s Michael DiRocco, Thomas emphasized Hunter’s growing familiarity with the playbook, which allows the team’s offense to be more efficient.
“Being able to go out there and execute the plays and knowing the ins and outs. Just being in his playbook, learning the playbook, knowing what he has, not having to second-guess himself or think twice about what he has. That’s probably the biggest thing.”
Thomas Jr. also reflected on his evolving partnership with Lawrence, highlighting their daily commitment to improvement and teamwork.
“We’re still continuing to grow our relationship. Just coming out here each and every day, continuously putting in that work and trying to be the best that we can be, taking a step forward each and every day to get better.”
Upcoming game and implications for Jaguars’ season outlook
The Jacksonville Jaguars will face the New Orleans Saints in their next preseason game on August 17, with kickoff set for 1 p.m. ET on WJAX-TV, a CBS affiliate. The severity of Brian Thomas Jr.’s hit and his recovery progress will be closely watched, as his presence is critical for Trevor Lawrence’s success and the team’s offensive resurgence. <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL analyst Steve Palazzolo has already expressed concern about potential difficulties ahead for the Jaguars, suggesting that setbacks like this could hinder their progress. How the Jaguars respond to these challenges may determine their trajectory in a competitive season.