Jaguars owner Shad Khan is conducting a “state of the franchise” address today, and he got things rolling by assuring his customers he wasn’t looking to changes his address.
“I think it bears repeating, we plan to be in Jacksonville,” Khan said as he began his remarks.
Of course, NFL International’s Mark Waller was in the crowd to hear that, as the Jaguars have committed to play a game in London once a year. That’s made many wonder about their long-term future.
Team president Mark Lamping took the podium next, and immediately began talking about local revenue, which they need to improve because they’re in one of the league’s smallest markets.
But he also pointed out that they’re rooted in North Florida, saying: “Wasn’t it wonderful for this community not to be one of those franchises rumored to be moving to Los Angeles.”
He also pointed to the revenue boost they got from London games, saying “Our involvement in London makes us more stable in Jacksonville.”
As to the product on the field, Khan admitted “agonizing” over each loss last year, but said he was looking for a sense of stability when he decided to extend coach Gus Bradley this offseason despite a 12-36 record.
“We need to be better on the field, I get that,” he said.
Lamping also spoke of a ticket price increase, but at least Jaguars fans have a sense that they’re going to have games to go to.