Rookie wide receiver Josh Cameron has earned a larger place in the Jacksonville Jaguars’ offense, but head coach Liam Coen says Brian Thomas Jr. remains central to the club’s plans despite a reduced workload in the win over New England.
What changed for the franchise
Cameron, a sixth-round selection in the 2026 draft, logged 23 offensive snaps against the Patriots, matching Thomas’ total. Cameron caught a 12-yard touchdown on one reception from two targets, while Thomas had one target and made an 8-yard catch.
Thomas’ 23 snaps were down from the 31 he played in the previous game against Denver. Coen said that reduction was not a response to the two drops Thomas had versus the Broncos. Jacksonville’s use of more two-tight-end personnel limited the available spots for wide receivers.
The single target against New England was the lowest total of Thomas’ NFL career. Through the first two games of the season, the 2024 first-round pick has seven receptions for 88 yards. He had posted three catches for 40 yards in each of Jacksonville’s opening two contests.
Thomas said he is not troubled by the changing snap count, saying his approach is to stay prepared and make the most of every opportunity.
Coen said the Jaguars need Thomas’ ability to threaten defenses vertically, win contested catches and produce explosive plays. The coach added that the staff must continue putting Thomas in situations where those strengths can show up, and he expects the receiver to make plenty of plays this season.
Cameron has joined a receiver group that also includes Thomas, Jakobi Meyers and Parker Washington. The rookie has played a more substantial offensive role so far than Travis Hunter, who has taken 16 offensive snaps.
In three games, Cameron has three catches for 32 yards, with two of those receptions resulting in touchdowns. He also has worked across all four special-teams units, shares kickoff-return duties with Ameer Abdullah and has averaged 27.2 yards on five returns.
Coen praised Cameron’s ability to absorb a demanding workload, including offensive responsibilities, personal-protector duties on punt, kickoff coverage assignments and kickoff returns. He described the rookie as smart, self-motivated and confident.
Cameron entered Jacksonville’s offseason program while recovering from a calf strain sustained at the scouting combine, which limited him early in organized team activities. He said overcoming that difficult start has made his progress especially meaningful, crediting the team for allowing him to play with confidence.
Inside the Jaguars’ facility, Coen said Cameron is reserved and respectful. On the field, however, the coach sees a far more forceful player. Cameron said he deliberately changes his mindset before games, reminding himself that opponents must notice him whenever he receives a chance to make an impact.
Jacksonville now heads into its matchup with Cincinnati with Cameron’s role expanding, while Thomas remains a key part of Coen’s offensive plans.
