The Jacksonville Jaguars have absorbed a string of recent setbacks that have magnified the need to remedy significant roster shortcomings. Amid the buzz of trade rumors and calculated maneuvering, one name has risen above the noise: Trey Smith. This free agent is increasingly viewed as a potential cornerstone, capable of overhauling the Jaguars’ offensive line with a blend of physicality and veteran experience. A strategic move to bring in Smith might just be the transformative trade that propels the Jaguars back into contention.
A Tumultuous 2024 Campaign
The Jaguars’ recent campaign was marred by disappointment. It marked a stark regression after back-to-back 9-8 seasons under head coach Doug Pederson. The team’s struggles culminated in a dismal 4-13 record, leading to Pederson’s dismissal. In a surprising twist, team owner Shad Khan embarked on an unconventional coaching search. He enticed Liam Coen away from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he had been slated to resume his role as offensive coordinator under Todd Bowles.
This bold move, however, complicated the Jaguars’ hiring process. It cast a shadow of awkwardness over the proceedings. The situation took another unexpected turn when Khan made the decision to fire general manager Trent Baalke. The organizational overhaul continued until February 21, when the Jaguars finally welcomed James Gladstone from the Rams’ front office as the new general manager.
Here we’ll try to identify the perfect free agent who can help fill Jacksonville Jaguars’ biggest need in the 2025 NFL offseason.
The Blueprint for a Bold 2025
The Jaguars face a clear mandate in 2025: to construct a potent offense around quarterback Trevor Lawrence. This is especially significant after awarding him a five-year, $275 million contract last offseason.
The former No. 1 pick appeared in only 10 games during the 2024 season. He missed the latter half due to injury. Coen is expected to unlock Lawrence’s full potential, much as he did with Baker Mayfield, who enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024. Coen’s new system is designed to nurture Lawrence’s development, while the Jaguars continue to build their roster. Their successful selection of Brian Thomas Jr. in the 2024 NFL Draft is a promising start. The team could also further bolster its lineup by drafting another dynamic playmaker or by targeting a key offensive lineman in the upcoming first round. Alternatively, the free agency market presents an opportunity to shore up the offensive line.
The Crucial Role of a Strong Offensive Line
A well-crafted offensive line is the cornerstone of any winning football team. It not only protects the quarterback but also opens running lanes and underpins the entire offensive strategy. Unfortunately, the Jaguars have been hindered by inconsistency and a slew of injuries in this essential unit. It left them exposed to relentless pressure from opposing defenses.
Acquiring Trey Smith would change all of that. This would send a resounding message across the league—a declaration that the Jaguars are committed to fixing their critical flaws. With a sterling performance history and exemplary leadership both on and off the field, Smith should rejuvenate the offensive line. His arrival could transform the team’s approach where both the running game and the passing attack can truly flourish.
Why Trey Smith
Having spent his entire career with the Kansas City Chiefs, Smith now enters the free agent market as one of the premier prospects in the 2025 class. Sure, the Jaguars are considering multiple offensive linemen. However, Smith clearly stands out as the best option available.
Currently serving as the Chiefs’ right guard, Smith faced off against Jalen Carter in the Super Bowl. The Eagles dominated, but that should not diminish Smith’s value im a big way.
With Brandon Scherff also in the mix as a free agent, the rationale for signing Smith to a long-term deal becomes even more compelling. Protecting Lawrence is a top priority, and Smith brings the stability needed at the right guard position. Statistically, Smith holds the 11th-highest overall Pro Football Focus grade among NFL offensive guards and boasts the eighth-best pass-blocking score. In contrast, Scherff ranks only 64th in pass protection.
Sure, Smith’s contract is expected to be substantial. That said, the boost he would provide to the offensive line is well worth the investment. Replacing Scherff with Smith is a strategic move that not only addresses an immediate need but also aligns with the Jaguars’ long-term vision for sustained success.
A New Era in Jacksonville
In summary, the Jaguars are poised at a critical crossroads. With a fresh leadership approach under Liam Coen, an ambitious plan to build a potent offense around Trevor Lawrence, and the strategic pursuit of top-tier free agents like Trey Smith, the organization is laying the foundation for a new era. The potential acquisition of Smith not only promises to fortify a vulnerable offensive line but also signals a broader commitment to transformative, long-term growth. If these bold moves come to fruition, they could spark the turnaround that Jacksonville desperately needs—ushering in a future where the Jaguars reclaim their competitive edge and reignite the passion of their fan base.
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