Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies

After two seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, wide receiver Devin Duvernay’s departure in free agency has created a notable void in the team’s receiving corps—but it has also opened a critical opportunity for the Jaguars’ incoming rookie wideouts. Duvernay, who signed with the Miami Dolphins in March 2025, served as the Jaguars’ primary slot receiver and kick returner over the past two years, recording 89 catches for 876 yards and 4 touchdowns while contributing 1,200+ kick return yards. His exit wasn’t entirely unexpected—Duvernay sought a larger role and long-term contract that the Jaguars, focused on rebuilding their defensive line and securing core offensive players, couldn’t match. For a Jaguars team that drafted three wide receivers in the 2025 NFL Draft, including second-round pick Tyler Scott and fourth-round selections Jalen Brown and Marcus Johnson, Duvernay’s departure isn’t just a loss; it’s a chance to inject young talent into the lineup. Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies thus marks a turning point for the Jaguars’ receiving group, as they shift from relying on a veteran slot receiver to developing rookies who can grow with quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

A closer look at Duvernay’s role with the Jaguars reveals why his departure creates such a significant opportunity for rookies—and why Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies is a pivotal storyline for the 2025 season. Duvernay played 65% of the Jaguars’ offensive snaps in 2024, primarily lining up in the slot, where he was Lawrence’s go-to target on third downs (recording 28 third-down catches, tied for the team lead). He also handled 90% of the team’s kick return duties, providing consistency in a phase of the game that often lacks it. With Duvernay gone, the Jaguars have no clear replacement at slot receiver—incumbent backups like Tim Jones and Laviska Shenault Jr. have struggled to replicate Duvernay’s production, combining for just 32 catches and 2 touchdowns last season. This void is exactly what the rookie wideouts were drafted to fill: Scott, a 5’11”, 195-pound speedster from Cincinnati, excels in the slot with quick cuts and reliable hands; Brown, a 6’2” playmaker from USC, has the versatility to line up inside or outside; and Johnson, a 6’0” route-runner from Penn State, specializes in third-down conversions. Offensive coordinator Press Taylor noted, “Devin’s departure leaves a spot that’s up for grabs, and our rookies have the talent to seize it. We drafted them because we believe they can contribute right away, and this is their chance to prove it.” Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies thus reflects the Jaguars’ intentional rebuild, as they use a veteran’s exit to accelerate young players’ development.

The Jaguars’ rookie wideouts have already made waves during offseason workouts, showing they’re ready to compete for Duvernay’s old spot—and reinforcing why Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies is more than just a roster change. Scott, the highest-drafted of the trio, has stood out in minicamp with his ability to create separation in the slot: he’s caught 18 of 20 targets in practice drills, including a 35-yard touchdown catch from Lawrence during a red-zone simulation. Brown has impressed coaches with his versatility, lining up at both slot and outside receiver and making difficult catches in traffic—including a one-handed grab during a recent team scrimmage. Johnson, meanwhile, has focused on third-down situations, working closely with Taylor to refine his route-running and become a reliable target for Lawrence when the team needs a first down. All three rookies have also embraced the mental side of the game, staying late after practices to study film with Lawrence and veteran wide receiver Calvin Ridley. “These rookies aren’t just talented—they’re hungry,” Ridley said. “They show up every day ready to learn, and they’re not afraid to ask questions. That’s the kind of mindset you need to replace a player like Devin.” The rookies’ early success has even caught the attention of Duvernay himself, who tweeted, “Excited to see those young guys take over in Jacksonville—they’ve got the tools to be great.” Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies thus is already bearing fruit, as the rookies prove they’re capable of stepping into the void.

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ offensive scheme is perfectly suited to showcase the rookies’ strengths, making Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies a strategic fit for the team’s playcalling. Taylor’s system relies on a diverse receiving corps that can attack defenses from multiple angles—slot receivers who can create quick separation, outside receivers who can win deep, and versatile playmakers who can line up anywhere. Scott’s speed in the slot will let the Jaguars run more quick passes and screen plays, which Lawrence excels at; Brown’s size and athleticism will allow them to run more fade routes and red-zone targets; and Johnson’s route-running precision will make him a go-to option on third downs. Unlike Duvernay, who was primarily a slot specialist, the rookies’ versatility will let Taylor mix up personnel groupings, keeping defenses guessing. The Jacksonville Jaguars also plan to use the rookies in special teams, with Scott and Brown competing for kick return duties—filling another void left by Duvernay. “Our scheme is designed to highlight each player’s unique skills, and these rookies have a lot to offer,” Taylor said. “Scott’s speed, Brown’s size, and Johnson’s route-running—they each bring something different to the table, and that’s going to make our offense harder to defend.” The Jacksonville Jaguars thus aren’t just replacing Duvernay—they’re upgrading their offense with more versatile, dynamic playmakers. Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies thus underscores how the team is using roster changes to evolve its offensive identity.

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ veteran leaders have played a key role in mentoring the rookie wideouts, ensuring a smooth transition following Duvernay’s departure—and strengthening Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies as a story of team growth. Ridley, a Pro Bowl receiver entering his second season with the Jaguars, has taken the rookies under his wing, sharing tips on route-running, film study, and how to handle the mental demands of the NFL. He even hosts weekly film sessions at his home, where he breaks down opposing defenses with Scott, Brown, and Johnson. Lawrence, who has quickly developed chemistry with the rookies, has praised their work ethic and ability to absorb information. “These guys are like sponges—they listen, they ask questions, and they apply what they learn right away,” Lawrence said. “Building trust with receivers takes time, but with them, it’s happening fast. That’s going to be huge for us this season.” Even offensive linemen like Dalton Risner have gotten involved, teaching the rookies how to read defensive fronts to adjust their routes—a small detail that can make a big difference in game situations. The Jacksonville Jaguars’ culture of mentorship isn’t just about helping rookies succeed; it’s about building a cohesive unit that can grow together. “When veterans invest in rookies, it creates a bond that translates to on-field success,” head coach Doug Pederson said. “Our veterans understand that these rookies are the future of our team, and they’re doing everything they can to help them succeed.” The Jacksonville Jaguars thus are turning a potential loss into a team-building opportunity. Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies thus is a testament to the team’s culture of support and shared success.

Looking ahead, Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies will have long-term implications for the Jaguars’ offense, as they look to build a sustainable receiving corps around Lawrence. If the rookies perform well in 2025, they could form the core of the Jaguars’ receiving group for years to come—providing Lawrence with reliable targets as he enters his prime. Scott, in particular, has the potential to become a top-tier slot receiver, while Brown and Johnson could develop into valuable complementary pieces. This long-term vision was a key factor in the Jaguars’ decision to let Duvernay leave: instead of investing in a veteran approaching his 30s, they chose to prioritize young talent that can grow with the team. For the rookies themselves, this opportunity is a chance to prove they belong in the NFL—and to secure long-term roles with the Jaguars. “I know there’s pressure to replace Devin, but I see it as a challenge,” Scott said. “I’m going to work every day to earn my spot and help this team win. That’s all I can do.” With training camp set to begin in July, all eyes will be on the rookie wideouts to see who will emerge as Duvernay’s replacement. Devin Duvernay’s Departure Opens Spot for Jacksonville Jaguars’ Rookies thus isn’t just a short-term storyline; it’s a critical step in the Jaguars’ plan to build a championship-caliber offense. As the 2025 season approaches, the rookies’ success could very well determine whether the Jaguars rebound from their 4-13 record and return to playoff contention.