Following last year’s Urban Meyer debacle, the Jacksonville Jaguars enter 2022 under new leadership, and with that, a renewed sense of optimism that brighter days are ahead. They have much better NFL playoff odds than a year ago.
Jacksonville hired former Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl-winning head coach Doug Pederson as its new head coach. Renowned for his work with quarterbacks, Pederson will be tasked with helping last year’s first overall pick Trevor Lawrence reach his sky-high potential following a disappointing rookie season.
.@Jaguars Quarterback @TrevorLawrencee appreciates how HC Doug Pederson can relate to the QB position.
“It's been great. I think just the way he communicates.” #Jaguars | #DUUUVAL | #NFLTrainingCamp pic.twitter.com/gNsKiX0AKz
— SiriusXM NFL Radio (@SiriusXMNFL) August 15, 2022
Hoping to expedite their rebuild, the Jags spent the most of any organization during free agency. Jacksonville also selected talented linebacker/pass rusher Travon Walker, with the No. 1 overall pick in April’s draft, adding some much-needed athleticism on defense.
While they are likely a few years away from contending for a playoff spot, the Jags should be more competitive in 2022.
With that said, here is a look at Jacksonville’s regular season schedule.
Week 1 @ Washington Commanders
Date:'Sunday, September 11
Time:'1:00 p.m. ET
The Doug Pederson era officially begins with a matchup against the Washington Commanders and their new quarterback Carson Wentz. Pederson is all too familiar with Wentz, having coached the former No. 2 overall pick for five seasons during the pair’s time together in Philadelphia.
Week 2 vs. Indianapolis Colts
Date:'Sunday, September 18
Time:'1:00 p.m. ET
Jacksonville shocked the football world last season, downing the Colts in Week 18 and putting an end to Indy’s playoff hopes. Jaguars fans should expect a motivated Colts squad, which now boasts former Atlanta Falcons great Matt Ryan at quarterback.
Week 3 @ Los Angeles Chargers
Date:'Sunday, September 25
Time:'1:00 p.m. ET
The Jags do not have an excellent track record playing on the West Coast, losing 11 of their past 12 games. Things won’t get easier in 2022 against superstar quarterback Justin Herbert and an explosive Chargers offense.