RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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The Jacksonville Jaguars look like they were able to dodge a bullet.
The Jaguars' dominant performance during their joint practice with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Tuesday was nearly overshadowed by an injury to star wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who landed awkwardly on his left shoulder. Though he was able to stay on the field, Thomas was quickly removed from practice and was done for the day.
Luckily, the 23-year-old was able to avoid an actual injury and was only held out of the remaining practice as a precaution and likely would have returned had it been an actual game.
As reported by Gus Logue of Big Cat Country, Jaguars head coach Liam Coen reassured reporters after practice that Thomas was "alright," and the team just wanted to play it safe and make sure he would be ready for Week 1. "I think he's alright," Coen said after practice. "I mean, just came down on his shoulder. I think holding him out was smart. Keep him out, and then get him [ready to] go for Cleveland ."
On Wednesday, Thomas was back out there with his team but was wearing the red no-contact jersey.
Even though he was donning the red jersey, just having Thomas back on the field with his teammates the day after the injury scare is an encouraging sign.
Jaguars Counting On Thomas This Season
After a baffling regression last year, the Jaguars are counting on Thomas to bounce back this season. He looked like he was on a trajectory to become one of the best receivers in the NFL after his dominant rookie season in 2024, which saw Thomas named to the Pro Bowl. However, the ultra-talented youngster horribly struggled in 2025 while the rest of the offense flourished under first-year head coach Liam Coen.
Even though he was the subject of relentless trade rumors for months, the team never wavered in its belief in Thomas and refused to part with him . Thomas acknowledged hearing all the chatter and said the Jaguars' faith in him boosted his confidence.
Thomas has made Jacksonville's decision to keep him look like the right one. He has been a standout performer throughout the offseason. Coen praised Thomas for making "extremely intentional" improvements and is expecting a big year from him.
The Jaguars may have the NFL's most talented foursome of WRs this season with Thomas, Jakobi Meyers, Parker Washington, and Travis Hunter. If Thomas returns to his 2024 form, Jacksonville could have one of the league's most potent offenses.
Final Thoughts
Thomas has looked great throughout the offseason. His decline last season was incredibly confusing to witness and difficult to understand. All signs have been pointing to Thomas proving that last year was a fluke and that he will once again be a centerpiece of the offense this season.
Thankfully, Thomas appears to be fine after Tuesday's scare. A prolonged injury could have derailed all of the progress he has made over the past several months.
Jacksonville finishes the preseason Friday night against the Bucs after the teams' two days of joint practices. Even without the minor injury, Thomas (along with the rest of the starters) would not be playing in the game.
He should be ready to rock and roll for the Jaguars' opener against the Cleveland Browns on September 13.
Hopefully, Week ! against the Browns will be the beginning of the Brian Thomas Jr. Redemption Tour.
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