Jaguars’ Backup QB Battle: Shocking Truths Revealed So Far
Jaguars Quarterback Room: Who’s Behind Trevor Lawrence at Training Camp?
The Jacksonville Jaguars are halfway through training camp, and their first preseason game against the New Orleans Saints is coming up fast. Since star quarterback Trevor Lawrence is taking a seat for the opener, all eyes are on the backup quarterbacks. Let’s break down what’s happening in the QB room in simple terms.
The Big Picture: Why This Matters
Important Point: When the starting QB sits, the backups get their chance to shine. This preseason game is basically a job interview for the guys fighting for the QB2 and QB3 spots.
- Trevor Lawrence (the starter) → Resting for the preseason opener
- Nick Mullens → Locked in as QB2 (the primary backup)
- Carter Bradley vs. Joey Aguilar → Battling for QB3 (third-string/practice squad spot)
Nick Mullens: The Undisputed QB2
Why Mullens Has the Job Locked Down
| Reason | What It Means (ELI5) |
|---|---|
| Contract commitment | The team already paid him — they’re invested |
| System experience | He knows the playbook like the back of his hand |
| Mentor role | Helped Lawrence learn the new offense last year |
| Practice reps | Gets almost all the "second-team" practice throws |
Mullens’ Camp Highlights
- Consistent performer — steady day in, day out
- Big plays — Threw two deep touchdowns to Austin Trammell against the starting defense
- Zero competition — No other veteran brought in to challenge him
Looking Ahead: 2027 & Beyond
Mullens becomes a free agent in March 2027. The smart money says Jacksonville signs him to another 2-year, $4.5 million deal — basically the same contract he has now. He’s the reliable "insurance policy" every team wants.
The QB3 Battle: Bradley vs. Aguilar
This is where it gets exciting! Two young guys, one roster spot (probably).
Meet the Contenders
Carter Bradley
- Strengths: Mobile, makes plays with his legs, creative
- Camp performance: Flashy plays, even got some reps with the #2 offense
- Coach’s take: Head coach Liam Coen wants him to "just go execute… don’t overthink it"
Joey Aguilar
- Background: Undrafted rookie (wasn’t picked in the NFL Draft)
- Strengths: Big frame, cannon for an arm
- Camp performance: Raw talent, but less experience
The Numbers Game
- Only 3 preseason games to prove themselves
- Limited practice reps after camp ends
- Unlikely the team keeps two QBs on the practice squad
- Winner stays, loser likely goes to another team or practice squad elsewhere
What Coach Coen Wants to See from Bradley
"Don’t overanalyze it, man. Just go play one play at a time, execute the offense, and then let your playmaking skills take over." — Liam Coen, Head Coach
Coach’s Checklist for Bradley:
- Clean pre-snap operation — No delays, no confusion
- Run the offense as designed — Execute the system first
- Then be you — Let the natural playmaking ability show up
- No "pre-snap penalties" — False starts, delay of game = bad
What Happens Next? (Step-by-Step)
- Saturday → Preseason Game 1 vs. Saints (Lawrence sits, backups play)
- Next 2 weeks → Two more preseason games (Bradley & Aguilar split reps)
- Final roster cuts → Decision made on QB3
- Week 1 → Regular season begins with Lawrence, Mullens, and one young QB
Quick Summary
| Position | Player | Status | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| QB1 | Trevor Lawrence | Starter | Resting for preseason opener |
| QB2 | Nick Mullens | Locked | Veteran, knows system, mentor to Lawrence |
| QB3 | Carter Bradley | Leading | Mobile, creative, coach’s trust |
| QB3 | Joey Aguilar | Chasing | Big arm, undrafted, raw upside |
Bottom line: Mullens is safe. The real drama is Bradley vs. Aguilar for that third spot. Three preseason games will decide who wears a Jaguars helmet on Sundays.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Q: Why is Trevor Lawrence sitting out the first preseason game?
A: The team had a joint practice with the Saints on Thursday. Coaches often rest starters after intense practices against another team to avoid injuries. It’s standard NFL strategy.
Q: What exactly is a "practice squad" quarterback?
A: Think of it as the developmental roster. These players practice with the team but don’t play in games unless promoted. They’re "next in line" if someone gets hurt.
Q: Can the Jaguars keep BOTH Bradley and Aguilar?
A: Technically yes — but very unlikely. After training camp, practice reps are scarce. You can’t develop two young QBs with almost zero throws. One wins, one moves on.
Q: What does "McVay-family style of offense" mean?
A: It’s a coaching tree started by Sean McVay (Rams head coach). It emphasizes:
- Pre-snap motion (players moving before the ball is snapped)
- Play-action (fake run, then pass)
- Friendly routes for receivers
- Quick, rhythmic passing
Mullens knows this system well from last year.
Q: When do we find out who wins the QB3 job?
A: After the third preseason game (usually late August). That’s when NFL teams must cut their roster from 90 to 53 players. The decision will come then.
Stay tuned for Saturday’s game — the backup QB showdown starts then!