The Jacksonville Jaguars are riding high after defeating the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday Night Football, but as the trade deadline looms, speculation surrounds the fate of wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who has seen a diminished role on offense following a disappointing sophomore season.
There have reportedly been multiple teams interested, but the Jaguars have been reticent, and several NFL insiders are explaining why. According to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, Kansas City was interested in acquiring Thomas ahead of Tuesday's NFL trade deadline, but Jacksonville was reluctant to sell.
Breer noted that while Thomas hasn't been particularly productive statistically and isn't an ideal fit for head coach Liam Coen's offense, his ability to threaten defenses downfield remains valuable. Opposing defenses must account for Thomas' speed and big-play potential, which can create opportunities in the running game and open up space underneath for receivers Jakobi Meyers and Parker Washington.
That assessment is consistent with ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler's take from earlier this week.
"Several teams are interested (
[Chiefs]and Steelers are in the receiver market) and are confident Jack...