The Jacksonville Jaguars are gearing up for a 2026 season that looks a little different than usual. With the "Stadium of the Future" construction in full swing, the Jags will be playing an adjusted home schedule that takes them out of Jacksonville more than ever before. As schedule release day approaches, here's what we're predicting for the upcoming season.
Home Games Go International
The Jaguars will play two home games in London this season, giving the team more time away while EverBank Stadium undergoes major renovations. In 2027, the team will temporarily play in Orlando before the new stadium opens in time for the 2028 season. For 2026, EverBank Stadium will operate at a reduced capacity of approximately 42,507 fans—a significant drop from the usual 68,300 seats. The upper decks will be completely removed, leaving only the lower bowl and about 1,260 standing-room-only tickets available.
Strategic Scheduling
Under the team's agreement with the NFL, the Jaguars will play one home game outside Jacksonville. However, thanks to their deal with the City of Jacksonville, the franchise can play up to two games away from home in 2026, using the second as an additional London trip. Jaguars team president Mark Lamping revealed in February that the team will request a bye week right after their second London home game. They'll also ask for a road game either just before the first London game or right after the bye week, giving the franchise a full month to ramp up stadium construction mid-season.
Tougher Competition Ahead
After finishing first in the AFC South in 2025, the Jaguars' 2026 schedule is getting more challenging. In addition to their standard divisional opponents and rotation divisions, they'll face other first-place teams from around the league. With eight "home" games and nine "away" games this season (part of the NFL's 17-game schedule rotation), every matchup will count.
Three Bold Predictions
1. The London games will be a turning point. With two games abroad and a strategic bye week, expect the Jaguars to either build momentum or face a mid-season slump. The extended travel could be a challenge, but it also offers a unique bonding opportunity for the team.
2. First-place opponents will test the Jags early. Facing the top teams from other divisions means Jacksonville's defense will need to step up. Look for key divisional matchups against the Texans and Colts to be even more critical this year.
3. Reduced home capacity creates a different vibe. With fewer fans at EverBank Stadium, the atmosphere will be more intimate. This could work in the Jaguars' favor for night games or cold-weather matchups, but it also means every home game will feel like a must-win.
The full 2026-27 schedule is set to be released later in May, and Jaguars fans should be ready for a season full of twists, turns, and plenty of travel. Whether you're cheering from the stands or watching from home, make sure you're repping the teal—because this season is going to be one to remember.