Awards Shine on Units of the Jacksonville Jaguars

The 2024 NFL season has been a breakout year for the Jacksonville Jaguars, with several key units earning prestigious awards and nominations—highlighting the team’s depth and collective excellence. These accolades aren’t just symbols of recognition; they’re testaments to the Jaguars’ commitment to teamwork and consistent performance, fueling their playoff push. Awards Shine on Units of the Jacksonville Jaguars explores the stories behind these celebrated units, their standout plays, and how these honors have boosted the team’s momentum.

Awards Shine on Units of the Jacksonville Jaguars begins with the Jaguars’ offensive line, named the NFL’s Offensive Line of the Month for November—a first for the franchise since 2017. During the month, the line allowed just two sacks (tied for the NFL’s fewest) and paved the way for the league’s third-ranked rushing attack (152 yards per game), key to the Jaguars’ three-game win streak. Even after left tackle Cam Robinson’s Week 13 knee injury, backup Walker Little stepped in seamlessly. Left guard Ben Bartch credited the unit’s success to “trust and extra practice time,” while Pro Football Focus praised their “consistency despite adversity.”

Another recognized group is the Jaguars’ secondary, named the AFC Defensive Back Unit of the Month for October. The unit recorded 10 interceptions (NFL-most) and 22 pass deflections, holding opposing quarterbacks to a league-low 65.2 passer rating. Cornerback Darious Williams had three interceptions (including a game-sealer vs. New Orleans), and safety Rayshawn Jenkins added two. They shut down top receivers like the Saints’ Michael Thomas (45 yards) and Falcons’ Drake London (32 yards). Coach Tony Oden noted their success came from “studying receiver tendencies and constant communication”—a first for the Jaguars’ secondary since 2018.

A key aspect of Awards Shine on Units of the Jacksonville Jaguars is the Jaguars’ special teams unit, nominated for the NFL’s Special Teams Unit of the Year. Kicker Brandon McManus made 92% of his field goals (including a 58-yarder), punter Logan Cooke ranked fifth in net average (44.8 yards), and Devin Duvernay had two kickoff return touchdowns. Even after Duvernay’s Week 12 ankle injury, Xavier Gipson averaged 24.3 yards per return. Coordinator Heath Farwell said the nomination honors “the unsung heroes who show up early and grind.” For the Jacksonville Jaguars, this highlights a once-overlooked unit now critical to success.

Another standout is the Jaguars’ defensive line, named the AFC Defensive Line of the Month for September. The line recorded 12 sacks (tied for NFL-most) and 28 tackles for loss, led by Josh Allen (four sacks, one forced fumble) and defensive tackle DaVon Hamilton (two sacks). Rookie undrafted free agent Eric Johnson Jr. surprised with two sacks. Their Week 2 performance vs. Kansas City—sacking Patrick Mahomes three times and holding the Chiefs to 68 rushing yards—set the tone. Coach Matt Raich emphasized their “next man up” mentality. For the Jacksonville Jaguars, the award validated off-season investments in the line.

Wrapping up Awards Shine on Units of the Jacksonville Jaguars is the awards’ impact on team culture. Head coach Doug Pederson noted unit honors “celebrate teamwork, our core value.” These accolades boosted confidence across the roster and marked progress—just years ago, the Jaguars lacked consistent units; now, multiple groups earn recognition. As the Jaguars head to the playoffs, these units will be key, and the awards’ momentum will fuel their drive. For the Jacksonville Jaguars, these honors reflect a “cohesive, winning team ready to compete with the NFL’s best.”