Rumors have persisted for years that the Jacksonville Jaguars could be the first NFL franchise to relocate abroad, particularly to the United Kingdom. While speculation about an international move—more specifically a permanent move to London—has circulated regularly, the question remains: Are the Jacksonville Jaguars truly moving to London? The answer, though nuanced, suggests that while the idea is not completely far-fetched, it’s far from a done deal.
Why Jacksonville?
The Jaguars have long been considered a potential relocation candidate due to several factors:
- Small Market Size: Jacksonville is currently one of the smallest markets in the NFL by media reach and population.
- Attendance Challenges: The Jaguars have had periods of low attendance and ticket sales over the years, although that trend has improved recently.
- Ownership Interests: Owner Shahid Khan, who also owns the English Premier League club Fulham F.C., has shown an affinity for the UK market.
These elements have combined to create an air of uncertainty around the long-term viability of Jacksonville as the team’s home base. The consistent international scheduling of Jaguars games further fuels this sentiment.
The London Connection
Since 2013, the Jaguars have played at least one game per season in London, often serving as the “home” team. The NFL has used these games as part of its effort to expand the sport’s global footprint, and Jacksonville has been a willing participant.
In 2020, the team even announced it would play two games in London that year, although that was ultimately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, the team has continued its international presence and built up a steady UK fan base.
“The idea that the Jaguars would someday become the NFL’s first international team is not entirely fiction,” says NFL analyst Andrew Brandt. “The league wants to globalize the game, and Jacksonville has been the test case.”
Stadium Improvements and Local Commitment
Despite the international focus, the team has also signaled a long-term commitment to its home city. In 2023, the Jaguars unveiled plans for a nearly $2 billion upgrade to EverBank Stadium as part of a public-private partnership with the City of Jacksonville.
- The renovation plan: Includes shading for fans, improved facilities, and community spaces.
- Commitment clause: The plan includes agreements that would effectively tie the team to Jacksonville through at least the 2040 season.
These plans reflect a strong commitment from the ownership to remain embedded in the Jacksonville community, undermining the theory that a full relocation is imminent.
What the NFL is Saying
While the NFL has been clear in its intent to grow the game internationally, league officials have not announced any plans to permanently station a team overseas. In fact, logistical issues like time zones, travel demands, and tax regulations have been significant hurdles in making an international team a reality.
According to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, the league remains in the “exploration phase” when it comes to international expansion. In December 2023, he stated:
“We value our fans in the UK and appreciate the support the Jaguars and other teams have received there. But moving a franchise to London permanently is a significant endeavor and not something that is on our immediate agenda.”
Looking Ahead
So, will the Jacksonville Jaguars move to London?
The most likely answer is: not anytime soon. While the team continues to build its brand abroad and invest heavily in year-over-year games in the UK, there are strong indicators that ownership remains committed to Jacksonville for the foreseeable future. The planned stadium renovations and city partnerships are strong evidence of that.
That said, the conversation about a full-time international NFL team isn’t going away. And if any team is poised to fill that role when or if the league makes that leap, the Jaguars still stand as the lead candidate.
Conclusion
While rumors will undoubtedly continue, the idea of the Jaguars moving to London remains just that—for now—a rumor. The franchise may continue to play international games and develop a global fan base, but there is currently no official plan to relocate the team permanently across the Atlantic. For now, the Jacksonville Jaguars remain Florida-based, deeply rooted both on the field and in their local community.
