JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jaguars’ home opener against the Cleveland Browns is Sunday, and fans are already turning out in force at team apparel stores after the team’s deep playoff run last season.
Nease High School’s dance team spent the morning at Sports Mania on Jacksonville Beach helping sell Jaguars merchandise as the city gears up for the new season. The store was crowded with fans who said last year’s success — and new and returning players — have raised expectations.
Mathew Smith, who owns Sports Mania, said fans are excited about players such as Parker Washington, Brenton Strange and quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
“Oh my goodness. Everybody is excited,” Smith said. “Trevor Lawrence putting weight on, showing command of the football field.”
Many shoppers recalled watching games in the stadium pool at EverBank Stadium last season.
“We started the season in the pool watching the game,” Melissa Klipp, a Jaguars fan, said. “It was fun. When Jaxson DeVille belly-flopped, that was distracting.”
Store staff said they’ve seen interest from across the country and beyond.
“We’ve had people in from Chicago recently … Minnesota … we actually just helped someone from Japan yesterday, so Jags nation is spread nationwide and worldwide.”
Monday marked the start of the Jaguars’ official spirit week, with businesses across the city — from neighborhood bars to national chains such as Firehouse Subs and Culver’s — holding team-themed events at select locations.
There is one key difference this season: construction at EverBank Stadium is expected to reduce stadium capacity and shrink traditional tailgating areas.
Organizers and local business owners say that will likely push many fans who don’t attend games to watch and celebrate at parties, restaurants and bars throughout Duval County.
The Jaguars host the Browns on Sunday. Fans planning to attend should check traffic, parking and venue updates as construction alters usual game-day routines.
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