Struggles Continue for Jaguars WR Thomas Jr., Benched in Second Half

Entering the year, the budding connection between Brian Thomas Jr. and Trevor Lawrence had been one of the biggest stories that came out of the Jacksonville Jaguars' offseason.

But, thus far, Thomas' sophomore slump has carried over into this season, with the former LSU standout recording just nine catches for 105 yards and a touchdown.

On Sunday, in Jacksonville's 34-31 loss against the Houston Texans, Thomas recorded zero catches for the second-straight week, failing to haul in either of his targets.

Thomas saw no snaps in the second half of the loss, with undrafted rookie Josh Cameron and Travis Hunter getting more action.

Following the game, head coach Liam Coen was asked about Thomas' lack of action.

"Guys have to step up and make plays," Coen said before quickly moving on.

After recording 40 receiving yards in each of his first two games this season, Thomas has caught just four passes since, with his drop problems once again rearing their ugly head.

Against the Texans, both of Thomas' targets hit him in the hands, but neither could be hauled in.

As Jacksonville continues to try to cement itself as a contender in the AFC, Thomas needs to be better, especially with the added production from other players around him.

Parker Washington continues to look like one of the top pass-catching threats in the NFL, with Jakobi Meyers and Hunter both making plays as well.

Hunter had his best offensive performance of the season by far on Sunday, hauling in four catches for 59 yards and his second-career touchdown, adding an interception in the endzone as a defensive back.

After a slow start to the year, Hunter has begun to look like the "unicorn" type player that Jacksonville traded up for.

The midseason deal for Meyers last season continues to look like one of the best acquisitions of the deadline as well, with the veteran wideout picking up Thomas' slack.

Luckily for Thomas, he still has the support of his coaching staff and teammates, with Hunter talking about helping him throughout these struggles.

"I just try to give him motivation," Hunter said. "Keep speaking to him, continue to let him know I’m here for him. If he needs me, I’m right here with him."

With the Jaguars dropping their first interdivisional matchup of the season, they have a bye week to prepare for redemption against the Indianapolis Colts.

For Thomas, the bye week comes at a good time, allowing the third-year man to refocus and find where he is coming short.