That’s the view of former Jags quarterback Mark Brunell, who won the Super Bowl with New Orleans Saints in 2009.
Jacksonville reached the playoffs last season for the first time since 2007, eventually being beaten in the AFC Championship match by New England Patriots.
Their ten regular season wins was just one fewer than the previous three campaigns combined as the Jags’ defense shone.
Offense wasn’t too bad either with rookie running back Leonard Fournette adding four touchdowns in the postseason to his nine during the regular campaign.
Quarterback Blake Bortles also continued to impress as the Jags looked solid in every aspect of the game.
That core now have another year of experience, but Brunell also acknowledges that his former side won’t have the shock factor this season.
“There will be higher expectations this year after the success of last season,” Brunell, who spent eight years in Jacksonville, told Express Sport.
“There were question marks last year but the Jags exceeded expectations, but they’re not going to surprise anyone this year.
“They’ve got more depth, and a lot of talent but they also face a tougher schedule.
“Teams understand that Jacksonville are a good football team. Blake Bortles improved and there are no weak points.
“Having got so close last year, the ultimate goal will be to win the Super Bowl. Anything short of that is a disappointment.
“The start is critical. Early success always sets you up for a good season but I believe the Jags will be in the playoffs.”
The Jags will make the trip across the Atlantic for the sixth year in a row as they host Super Bowl winners Philadelphia Eagles at Wembley on October 28.
There has been plenty of speculation that a franchise will one day move to London, with Jacksonville the favourites with most.
Jags owner Shahid Khan has recently made a bid to buy Wembley Stadium while he also owns Premier League side Fulham.
And Brunell believes hosting a game in London is good for the game, and works well for the Jags.
“They do look forward to it,” Brunell added. “It’s a tough week with the system and schedule but they are used to it now and it works to the Jags’ advantage.
“I can see them moving to London one day, the NFL do want a franchise in London.
“The logistics are obviously complicated but I believe the league are keen and it would be a huge advantage to whichever team is based in the UK.”