The Jacksonville Jaguars, coming off a successful 13-4 season and a division title in the AFC South, find themselves with only two players recognized in ESPN's latest projections for the top 100 players in the NFL for the 2026 season. Despite their impressive performance, there seems to be a prevailing sentiment that the Jaguars are not receiving the respect they deserve on a national level.
In this year's rankings, edge rusher Josh Hines-Allen is positioned at No. 67, while quarterback Trevor Lawrence is listed at No. 96. These selections highlight the contributions of both players to a team that is rapidly gaining momentum in the league.
Michael DiRocco from ESPN emphasized Hines-Allen's consistent performance, noting that he ranks among the top seven in pressures, sacks, and quarterback hits over the last three seasons. With the return of Travon Walker from injury and the emergence of second-year player B.J. Green II as a formidable presence in training camp, Hines-Allen is expected to benefit from increased support. The potential for Walker to take on more interior rushing duties could create advantageous one-on-one matchups for Hines-Allen, enhancing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Despite being a top performer in terms of sacks and pressures, Hines-Allen has only made the Pro Bowl twice, during his rookie year in 2019 and again in 2023 after an impressive season where he recorded 17.5 sacks. His significant impact often goes unnoticed outside of Jacksonville, raising questions about how he is perceived in the broader NFL landscape.
On the other hand, Trevor Lawrence's placement at No. 14 among quarterbacks has raised eyebrows, especially considering he was a finalist for the MVP award last season. Lawrence's performance during the Jaguars' eight-game winning streak at the end of the 2025 season showcased one of the highest-scoring offenses in the league, with Lawrence himself emerging as one of the more productive quarterbacks in the NFL.
Having established himself as a franchise quarterback capable of leading his team to the playoffs, Lawrence's development is expected to continue under the guidance of offensive coordinator Liam Coen. DiRocco pointed out that Lawrence's familiarity with Coen's system in his second year could provide a significant advantage. Unlike the previous season, where he had to adapt to a new offense, Lawrence will be building on the foundation he laid in 2025, which saw him throw 19 touchdown passes and add five rushing touchdowns during the final eight games.
As the Jaguars prepare for the upcoming season, the recognition of Hines-Allen and Lawrence in ESPN's top 100 player projections serves as a reminder of their potential impact. With a strong supporting cast and a solid coaching staff, both players are poised to elevate their game further, contributing to the Jaguars' aspirations for another successful season.
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