Brian Thomas Jr.'s Jaguars Role Explained in New NFL Rumors After WR Wasn't Moved at Trade Deadline

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano weighed in on Brian Thomas Jr.'s value to the Jacksonville Jaguars after the team declined to trade him ahead of Tuesday's deadline.

Thomas has seemingly fallen behind other options including Parker Washington and Jakobi Meyers on the Jaguars depth chart while recording just 10 catches for 117 yards and two touchdowns in eight games this season.

The Jaguars "could have gotten a quality pick" for Thomas, who "garnered significant interest" ahead of the deadline, according to Fowler.

"They value Thomas, though his numbers don't reflect that. He has speed that demands defensive attention... Thomas was, quite easily, the most gifted athlete on the field when I visited Jaguars training camp," Fowler reported.

Graziano added Thomas' importance to the Jaguars has been made clear by injuries to receiving corps around the NFL, including on the Kansas City Chiefs (Tyquan Thornton), Los Angeles Rams (Puka Nacua and Davante Adams), San Francisco 49ers (Mike Evans, Deebo Samuel Sr. and Christian Kirk).

"If something should happen to Jakobi Meyers or Parker Washington, the Jaguars believe Thomas is a player who could help them if he suddenly got thrust into a higher-volume role," Graziano reported.

Jaguars general manager James Gladstone said when asked about Thomas after the deadline his team appreciates having a wide receiver room with "a range of skillsets."

"His role, and what I imagine his contribution is going to be down the stretch here, is going to be notable," Gladstone said Tuesday about Thomas.

The Jaguars loaded up by the deadline by adding safety Jessie Bates III alongside defensive tackles Jordan Davis and Davon Godchaux in what has been a clear push to build on the team's 6-2 start to make a playoff run this winter.

Thomas has caught just one pass in the last month. Jaguars coach Liam Coen could look to find a way to involve him more in the future, in part so the wide receiver is ready should he be called on to take on a larger role down the stretch.