JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Offensive lineman Tyler Shatley is currently the longest-tenured Jag, as he is in his 10th season with Jacksonville after joining the organization as an undrafted free agent in 2014.
Shatley's seen the worst season in franchise history when the Big Cats went 1 and 15 in 2020, but he's also been to the playoffs twice, so he's witnessed the organization's ups and downs.
"We've really been able to just build a culture starting last year, and honestly, starting all of the years before. The good and the bad are all part of the foundation, and you need both," said Shatley.
The Jaguars have experienced their fair share, but the front office has been steering things in a winning direction.
"They're putting us in the right situations. They're building a team and putting in pieces that all the guys can play together. It's not just about one guy," said Shatley.
And now, the fan buy-in has also increased.
"When we get here early on Sundays for the games, there are already people in the parking lot. There's just excitement, and that helps build that culture again because you kind of see the fruits of your labor."
Improvements on the field are also being noticed by the NFL, as for the first time since 2008, the Jaguars have received three primetime games in one season.
"It's nice to see people want to see the Jags. People want to watch. And now we have the opportunity to showcase what we're doing," said Shatley. "Remind guys like, hey, it's one week at a time because it can turn around quickly. And I've seen it do that, and it's not a lot of fun. So, it's a good perspective to keep us moving forward."
Shatley believes the possibilities for the Jaguars' future are limitless and hopes to see the franchise win its first Super Bowl.