The Jacksonville Jaguars will open the 2026 NFL season at home Sunday when they welcome the Cleveland Browns to EverBank Stadium.
Jacksonville enters the season with high expectations after going 13-4 and winning the AFC South last year. The Jaguars are hoping to build on that success and make another serious playoff run behind quarterback Trevor Lawrence and head coach Liam Coen.
Cleveland, meanwhile, enters a new era under head coach Todd Monken. The Browns finished 5-12 last season and have several major questions to answer, particularly at quarterback. Deshaun Watson is expected to start, marking his first regular-season start since 2024.
Trevor Lawrence Looks to Continue His Rise
Lawrence is one of the biggest storylines heading into Sunday’s game.
After finishing last season strongly under Coen, Lawrence enters 2026 with expectations of taking another major step forward. Jacksonville believes its quarterback has finally found the consistency necessary to become one of the AFC’s elite quarterbacks.
The Jaguars will also look to establish a new identity in the running game after moving on from Travis Etienne. Bhayshul Tuten and Chris Rodriguez are expected to compete for opportunities in the backfield.
Browns Face Major Test
Cleveland’s biggest advantage could be its defense.
The Browns traded star pass rusher Myles Garrett during the offseason but brought in Jared Verse to help fill the enormous void. Cleveland’s defense has also been remarkably consistent, allowing no 300-yard passing performances in 45 consecutive games entering Week 1.
Mason Graham will also be looking to make an impact along the defensive line, while Cleveland hopes its defense can keep Lawrence from getting comfortable.
All Eyes on Deshaun Watson
Watson’s return will be one of the biggest storylines of the afternoon.
The Browns need their quarterback to provide stability while a young offensive roster develops around him. Rookie receiver KC Concepcion has generated plenty of excitement and could immediately become an important part of Cleveland’s passing attack.
Cleveland will need to protect Watson, establish the running game and avoid giving Jacksonville’s defense short fields.
Key Matchup
The biggest battle could be Jacksonville’s offensive line against Cleveland’s defensive front.
If the Browns can pressure Lawrence consistently, they have a chance to make this a low-scoring game. But if Lawrence has time to throw, Jacksonville has enough playmakers to create serious problems for Cleveland’s secondary.
The Jaguars also have the advantage of playing at home, and most preseason expectations favor Jacksonville in the opener.
Cleveland’s defense should keep this game competitive, but Jacksonville appears to have the more complete team entering Week 1.
Expect Lawrence to make enough plays to lead Jacksonville to a season-opening victory while Cleveland’s offense works through some early-season growing pains.
