Disgruntled Jacksonville Jaguars fans mirrored a recent protest by New York Giants supporters, airing their grievances with team ownership during Sunday's game against the Tennessee Titans. A banner towed by a plane over EverBank Stadium expressed their frustration with the team's disappointing 2024 season.
Following a promising near-playoff run last year, the Jaguars have struggled this season, currently holding a 3-12 record. The loss of quarterback Trevor Lawrence to a season-ending injury after a 0-4 start further compounded the team's woes. Fans have pointed fingers at general manager Trent Baalke for the team's decline.
The aerial banner, which read "Shad – Fire Baalke for Duval!", directly called for owner Shad Khan to dismiss Baalke. While head coach Doug Pederson has also faced scrutiny, the banner specifically targeted the general manager.
Baalke joined the Jaguars in 2021 after previous stints with the San Francisco 49ers. His tenure has included the controversial hiring and subsequent firing of Urban Meyer. Despite leading the team to consecutive 9-8 seasons in 2022 and 2023, the Jaguars' current struggles have intensified calls for change.
With a likely top-five draft pick in the upcoming 2025 draft, the Jaguars face crucial decisions about the future direction of the franchise. While the team's ownership has yet to publicly address the fan protests, numerous reports suggest that Baalke's position may be in jeopardy.
