Issue from 2025 season now a strength for Jaguars early in 2026
An issue that was prevalent during the 2025 season is now an early-season strength for the Jaguars.
Last season, penalties plagued the Jacksonville Jaguars, ranking fourth in the NFL for the most penalties per game with an average of 7.2. However, this season, the tide has turned dramatically for the Jaguars. Through three games in 2026, they have averaged a mere five penalties per game, tying for the lowest mark in the NFL so far this year.
This reduction in penalties has translated into a significant decrease in penalty yards, totaling just 121 so far this season. The Jaguars currently rank third in this category. The importance of avoiding penalties cannot be overstated, as they can negate big plays and force teams into disadvantageous down-and-distance situations. Defensively, penalties can also flip field position and extend drives for the opposing team.
The Jaguars seem to be capitalizing on this advantage. Playing cleaner games than their opponents has given them a significant edge on game days. This shift from a penalized team last season to one of the least penalized teams this year has clearly become a strength for the Jaguars early in the 2026 season.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
