Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who shone as a rookie with 87 receptions for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns, has seen his role diminish in 2024 despite the team's 5-2 start. Through seven games, Thomas has just 10 catches for 117 yards and has played only 44% of offensive snaps, with his usage fluctuating weekly. Head coach Liam Coen and quarterback Trevor Lawrence have publicly supported Thomas, with Lawrence calling him "so talented" after his first catch since Week 4 came in a win over the Colts.
Potential Trade Suitors
If the Jaguars decide to move Thomas, several teams could pursue him, using the recent Marvin Harrison Jr. trade (2027 second- and seventh-round picks for Harrison and a 2027 sixth) as a reference point.
Kansas City Chiefs
Proposed package: Chiefs receive WR Brian Thomas Jr.; Jaguars receive 2027 third-round pick, 2028 sixth-round pick. Kansas City has an extra 2027 third-rounder from the Trent McDuffie trade and a pressing need for a deep threat. Patrick Mahomes has not completed a pass of 20+ yards in his last three games, and the Chiefs' leading receiver in a recent loss to the Broncos was running back Emmett Johnson, followed by tight end Travis Kelce.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Proposed package: Steelers receive WR Brian Thomas Jr.; Jaguars receive 2027 third-round pick, T Dylan Cook. Pittsburgh, hit hard by injuries, could add Cook, a backup tackle who lost his starting job to Max Iheanachor but has starting experience. The Jaguars recently lost tackle Anton Harrison for the season, thinning their depth.
Las Vegas Raiders
Proposed package: Raiders receive WR Brian Thomas Jr.; Jaguars receive 2027 third-round pick. The Raiders (4-4, 1-4 in their last five) have a clear need at wide receiver both now and for the future when No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza takes over for Kirk Cousins. Star tight end Brock Bowers lacks a consistent complementary receiver.
Washington Commanders
Proposed package: Commanders receive WR Brian Thomas Jr.; Jaguars receive 2027 fourth-round pick, DT Shy Tuttle. Washington (2-4-1) plays in a weak NFC East and could become buyers with an upset over the Rams in Week 9. Thomas was a college teammate of quarterback Jayden Daniels at LSU. The Commanders also need receiver depth with Terry McLaurin out for the season and Stefon Diggs on a one-year deal, while Jacksonville seeks interior defensive line help after DaVon Hamilton's injury.
