JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Wide receiver Jakobi Meyers, who has donned No. 16 throughout his seven-year NFL career, acknowledged that number is off-limits after his trade to the Jacksonville Jaguars as it belongs to quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Rather than asking for a number change, which he humorously noted could come with a hefty financial price, Meyers decided to embrace a new chapter with a fresh jersey number: No. 3.
Transitioning from a struggling 2-6 Las Vegas Raiders squad to a 5-3 Jaguars team still in the playoff hunt, Meyers steps into the role of potentially becoming the Jaguars’ primary receiving target. This is a significant shift, moving from being the secondary option behind tight end Brock Bowers to filling a pressing need for the Jaguars, which is enhancing their inconsistent passing game.
Jaguars general manager James Gladstone expressed enthusiasm about Meyers’ arrival, highlighting his ability to minimize drops as a critical asset. “We’re looking forward to seeing how his skill set fits within the system,” Gladstone stated. With the Jaguars leading the league with 19 drops, Meyers, who has historically kept his drop count to a minimum, offers a promising solution to this issue.
Meyers arrived in Jacksonville on Tuesday, quickly passing his physical and getting on the practice field that afternoon. His familiarity with receivers coach Edgar Bennett, who previously coached him during his tenure with the Raiders, should ease his adjustment to the Jaguars’ offensive system. The importance of this relationship is evident as Meyers prepares to make his debut against the Houston Texans this Sunday.
“I’m just happy to be here with him,” Meyers remarked about Bennett, emphasizing that having a rapport with a coach can facilitate smoother integration into a new team. His eagerness to contribute comes at a crucial time, as the Jaguars’ top receivers have been plagued by injuries, leaving them short-handed within their receiving corps.
Lawrence welcomed Meyers’ addition, noting his quick grasp of the offense and expressing confidence in his ability to uplift the team’s performance. “Glad we have him,” Lawrence said, indicating that Meyers could provide the reliable hands needed in the receiving game.
Meyers is currently in the final year of a three-year contract and due to become a free agent in March. The Jaguars’ investment of two draft picks for a player like Meyers suggests their interest in potentially extending his contract, though Meyers himself remains cautious. “I’ve got to play good football first,” he remarked, indicating that performance would dictate any discussions about a new deal.
As Meyers embarks on this new journey with the Jaguars, both he and the team are optimistic about the positive impact he can have, not only as a pass catcher but as a leader who can help stabilize the receiving game amid challenging circumstances.