Rookie's Game-Winner
Jacksonville Jaguars Secure Preseason Victory Over Saints With Rookie J'Mari Taylor's Late Touchdown
The Jacksonville Jaguars picked up their first preseason win of 2025, beating the New Orleans Saints 24-20 on the road. The victory came down to the wire, with rookie running back J'Mari Taylor scoring the go-ahead touchdown with just 4:55 left in the game, according to Yahoo Sports.
Taylor, an undrafted rookie, led all rushers with 78 yards and capped the drive with a two-yard score. A 43-yard reception from Trevor Pena set up the winning play, per Jacksonville.com.
J'Mari Taylor Emerges as Preseason Standout
Taylor was the clear star of the night. The undrafted rookie ran for 78 yards and scored the game-winning two-yard touchdown. That rushing total led every player on the field, according to St. Augustine Record.
His late score gave Jacksonville a 24-20 lead they would not give up. Taylor's performance gives Jaguars coaches a lot to think about when roster cuts come. Undrafted free agents rarely stand out this early, making his night all the more impressive.
Trevor Pena's 43-Yard Catch Flips the Game
Before Taylor crossed the goal line, it was wide receiver Trevor Pena who broke the game open. His 43-yard reception moved the ball deep into Saints territory. That single play set the table for the game-winning drive, per Jacksonville.com.
Big plays in the passing game are rare in preseason, when offenses tend to play it safe. Pena's catch stood out as one of the most electric moments of the night for the Jaguars.
Jaguars Defense Holds Saints to 20 Points
The Jacksonville defense also played a key role in securing the win. Holding the Saints to 20 points in a preseason game on the road is a positive sign for the Jaguars heading into the regular season, according to Daily Commercial.
Preseason games are mostly about finding depth players and testing schemes. The defense's ability to make big plays in a close, late-game situation gives the coaching staff real confidence, per St. Augustine Record.
What Jacksonville's Preseason Win Means Going Forward
Preseason records don't count, but winning builds habits. For a Jaguars team looking to bounce back after a tough 2024 regular season, a road win over the Saints offers early momentum. Players like Taylor are fighting for roster spots, and performances like his matter, according to Ocala.com.
Jacksonville's next preseason game will give coaches more data to work with. For now, Taylor's breakout night and a clutch defensive effort gave Jaguars fans something real to feel good about heading into August.
Sentiment
NeutralPublishers
5
Articles
4
Reach
5
