Jaguars acquire WR Meyers from Raiders for 2026 draft picks, changing jersey number to 3
The Jacksonville Jaguars have acquired wide receiver Jakobi Meyers from the Las Vegas Raiders, aiming to bolster their struggling receiving corps.
Why it matters: This trade highlights the Jaguars' commitment to enhancing their offense as they seek to capitalize on a winning season after starting with a 5-3 record.
- The Jaguars currently lead the NFL with 19 dropped passes this season, an issue that Meyers, known for his reliability, is expected to help rectify.
- His addition may provide a much-needed boost in both experience and skill, particularly given the injuries affecting other receivers on the roster, including Travis Hunter and Brian Thomas Jr.
What’s new: Meyers, who has consistently worn No. 16 throughout his seven-year career, has opted to wear No. 3 with the Jaguars.
- His choice reflects an understanding of the emotional weight attached to jersey numbers, especially since the number he chose was previously held by Trevor Lawrence.
- Meyers expressed his practical thinking in opting for a less costly number: "I just understood the price tag that would've come with it, and I wasn't trying to take out another mortgage."
Yes, but: While Meyers has had notable success, there are questions regarding how quickly he can adapt to the Jaguars’ system.
- General Manager James Gladstone acknowledged the challenge: “We’re looking forward to seeing how his skill set fits within the system... It’s not dropping the football, right?”
- Despite having only 11 drops in 98 career games, the pressure to perform immediately could weigh on Meyers.
What to watch: Meyers reunites with Jaguars receivers coach Edgar Bennett, who coached him during his time with the Raiders.
- Their established rapport could facilitate Meyers' integration into the team, as he stated, "He's one of my favorite people in life. So I'm just happy to be here with him."
- This connection might also enhance the effectiveness of the Jaguars’ passing game, which has struggled at times this season.
The bottom line: With Meyers in the final year of his contract, his performance will be critical for both securing his future with the Jaguars and meeting the expectations set for the current season.
- Meyers mentioned his approach to potential extensions: “Honestly, I'll cross that bridge when we get there, but I'm not about to come in and ask for a pay raise on the first day, you know what I mean? That's crazy.”
- As he joins a team eager to build momentum, all eyes will be on how Meyers contributes to the Jaguars’ playoff aspirations.
