Upon joining the NFL in 1995 as an expansion franchise, the Jacksonville Jaguars quickly made their presence known with early postseason success and standout rosters fueled by strong defense and dynamic offensive talent.
Despite their relative youth as a franchise, the Jaguars have built a loyal following in Jacksonville and beyond. From teal uniforms to the beloved mascot Jaxson de Ville, the franchise has cultivated a distinct identity that reflects the energy and culture of North Florida. Fans have supported the team through rebuilding years, breakout seasons, and unforgettable playoff journeys.
Jacksonville continues shaping its future through developing young players, strong defensive traditions, and an evolving offensive philosophy. With excitement building around new talent and leadership, the Jaguars aim to turn flashes of success into sustained contention.
Where Do the Jacksonville Jaguars Play?
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ home stadium is EverBank Stadium, a venue located along the St. Johns River near downtown Jacksonville. Originally opened in 1995, the stadium has undergone multiple renovations, adding modern video boards, fan amenities, and unique viewing zones that create an energetic gameday environment.
EverBank Stadium is known for hosting college football games, international soccer matches, and more. Annually, it hosts Florida vs. Georgia, one of the biggest rivalries in college football. With seating capacity exceeding 67,000 and flexible design, the venue delivers one of the most distinctive home-field atmospheres in the NFL.
History of the Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars and Carolina Panthers both joined the NFL in 1995, marking one of the league’s most successful expansion entries. Under head coach Tom Coughlin, Jacksonville wasted no time making noise. By their second season in 1996, the Jaguars reached the AFC Championship Game, signaling a franchise with immediate promise.
The late 1990s and early 2000s featured strong defensive units and offensive talent anchored by stars like Mark Brunell, Fred Taylor, and Jimmy Smith. The team earned multiple playoff appearances during this era, building a passionate foundation of supporters.
A new chapter emerged in the mid-2010s with another surge toward the postseason. The 2017 Jaguars boasted one of the league’s most dominant defenses (nicknamed “Sacksonville”) and reached the AFC Championship Game after a breakout season, agonizingly coming within minutes of upsetting Tom Brady and the New England Patriots.
Recent years have focused on roster development, high-potential draft picks, and a renewed organizational direction. With emerging stars and a growing identity, Jacksonville is positioned to compete for future playoff runs and long-term success.
Interesting Facts & Franchise Milestones for the Jacksonville Jaguars
- Founded in 1993, began play in 1995 as an expansion franchise
- Reached the AFC Championship Game in 1996 and 2017
- EverBank Stadium features one of the NFL’s largest video boards
- Known for unique teal branding and energetic fan culture
- Annual Florida–Georgia game is hosted at EverBank Stadium
Notable Jacksonville Jaguars Players and Coaches
Notable Players
Tony Boselli, Offensive Tackle (1995–2001)
Jacksonville selected Boselli with the second overall pick of the 1995 NFL Draft, and he quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the expansion Jaguars. In the process, he also became one of the premier left tackles of his generation.
Boselli’s dominance in pass protection helped pave the way for the franchise’s early success, and he earned five consecutive Pro Bowl nods from 1996 to 2000. Though his career was shortened to just 91 games, he made enough of a mark to earn his place in Canton in 2022.
Jimmy Smith, Wide Receiver (1995–2005)
Jimmy Smith became the team’s first superstar wideout, delivering consistent production and big-game performances. A five-time Pro Bowler from 1997 to 2001, Smith had seven consecutive 1,000-yard seasons from 1996 to 2002 and nine in total with the Jaguars. He helped elevate Jacksonville’s passing offense throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Mark Brunell, Quarterback (1995-2003)
Brunell started 117 games in nine seasons in Jacksonville and played a key role in the success the Jaguars had in the Coughlin era. Brunell earned Pro Bowl honors three times, and though he was not known for prolific passing numbers, his steady hand and cool head helped the Jaguars win numerous big games.
Fred Taylor, Running Back (1998–2008)
Fred Taylor ranks among the most productive running backs of his era, with his combination of speed, size, and explosiveness. A cornerstone of Jacksonville’s offense for a decade, he ran for 1,000 yards seven times with the Jaguars. Overall, he accumulated more than 11,000 career rushing yards with the franchise and remains a highly-respected figure.
Maurice Jones-Drew, Running Back (2006–2013)
Maurice Jones-Drew brought physical running, versatility, and highlight power to the Jaguars’ offense. He led the NFL in rushing in 2011 and became one of the most popular players in team history.
Notable Coaches
Tom Coughlin (1995–2002)
Tom Coughlin became the franchise’s first head coach and quickly turned the expansion Jaguars into contenders. Under his guidance, Jacksonville reached the AFC Championship Game twice and redefined expectations for expansion teams.
Jack Del Rio (2003–2011)
Jack Del Rio led the Jaguars through multiple competitive seasons, emphasizing defensive toughness and disciplined play. His tenure produced two playoff appearances, including an 11–5 campaign in 2007 that marked one of the franchise’s most successful seasons since the Coughlin era.
Doug Marrone (2016–2020)
Doug Marrone’s Jacksonville tenure featured ups and downs, but he delivered one of the team’s most memorable seasons in 2017. That year, the Jaguars reached the AFC Championship Game with a dominant defense, coming one win shy of the Super Bowl.