Brian Thomas Jr. repeatedly sprinted past defenders and hauled in deep throws from Trevor Lawrence during two Jacksonville Jaguars OTA practices open to the media, culminating in at least one long touchdown. The bursts of success prompted renewed talk that the receiver and quarterback may be developing the connection they’ve discussed for more than a year.
Thomas, who was the subject of offseason trade speculation, said the improvement stems from a better sense of timing and trust — the quarterback knowing where the receiver will be at certain points and being able to rely on him. Coach Liam Coen credited Thomas’ offseason work and said the team has been more intentional this spring about how they use him to build chemistry.
The pairing has faced obstacles. Lawrence missed seven games during Thomas’ rookie season in 2024 because of a concussion and shoulder injury. After Lawrence left the field following a Week 13 concussion, backup Mac Jones targeted Thomas heavily, including double-digit targets in the final six games. Both players also were adapting to Coen’s offense, and Lawrence’s throwing had been limited while he recovered from shoulder surgery and adjusted his footwork.
Thomas struggled with drops and injuries in 2025, beginning the season with five drops in the first seven games and missing four games with ankle and shoulder issues. He finished 2025 with 48 catches for 707 yards and two touchdowns, down from his rookie totals of 87 catches for 1,282 yards and 10 scores. Coen said those factors have played into Thomas’ resurgent spring.
Lawrence listed improving their timing and chemistry among his top offseason goals and said added reps this spring are beginning to pay off. Coen said an improved connection with Thomas could help the offense push the ball downfield more in 2026. Per ESPN Research, the Jaguars had an NFL-high 39 attempts of 20-plus yards in Weeks 11-18, up from 34 in Weeks 1-10.
