The Jacksonville Jaguars have officially reached a lease agreement with Orlando officials to play their entire home schedule at Camping World Stadium for the 2027 NFL season. This temporary relocation, necessitated by the massive renovation of Jacksonville’s EverBank Stadium, marks a pivotal moment in the franchise’s transition toward its “Stadium of the Future.”
NFL Owners Give Unanimous Approval
During the league’s annual meeting in Phoenix, NFL owners voted unanimously to approve the short-term lease deal between the Jaguars and Florida Citrus Sports, the operator of Camping World Stadium. The move was expected, as Orlando had long been considered the frontrunner among several temporary site candidates, including the University of Florida’s Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville.
“Following a comprehensive evaluation of our 2027 playing options, we are pleased that the NFL and its owners agree that Orlando is the location that best meets the needs of the Jaguars, our opponents, and the league,” stated Jaguars President Mark Lamping.
The $1.4 Billion “Stadium of the Future” Vision
The displacement of the Jaguars is a direct result of an ambitious $1.4 billion renovation project aimed at transforming EverBank Stadium into a premier global venue. The city of Jacksonville and the Jaguars organization are collaborating to build a facility that addresses long-standing climate and comfort issues.
Key features of the renovation include:
- State-of-the-Art Canopy: A high-tech protective roof designed to shield fans from the Florida sun, reducing in-venue temperatures by up to 15 degrees.
- Modernized Concourses: Expanded social spaces and “communal zones” to enhance the fan experience beyond the seats.
- Technological Integration: High-speed 5G connectivity and massive new video boards.
- Economic Hub: The project is expected to anchor a wider downtown development district, driving year-round revenue for the city.
Construction is scheduled to hit its peak during the 2027 calendar year, making full-capacity games impossible during that window. The team is expected to return to their new home in time for the 2028 NFL kickoff.
Impact on the 2026 Transition Season
Before the total move to Orlando, the Jaguars will play the 2026 season at EverBank Stadium under restricted conditions. Due to early-stage construction, stadium capacity will be slashed by nearly 40%, limiting attendance to just 42,507 fans. This reduction is expected to create a high demand for tickets and potentially impact local game-day revenue in Jacksonville for that year.
Why Orlando? A Strategic Choice
Orlando’s Camping World Stadium is uniquely qualified to host an NFL franchise. The venue has a rich history of hosting high-profile football events, including the NFL Pro Bowl Games and major collegiate bowl matchups.
Furthermore, Orlando is currently undergoing its own $400 million renovation, which is slated for completion in the summer of 2027. This ensures the Jaguars will have access to upgraded locker rooms, premium seating, and broadcast facilities that meet strict NFL standards.
Jason Siegel, President and CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, emphasized that the city is “uniquely positioned to deliver an exceptional experience for the Jaguars organization and their global partners.”
Looking Ahead: The 2027 Schedule and London Commitments
While Orlando will serve as the primary home, the Jaguars’ 2027 campaign will still maintain its international footprint. The team is confirmed to play at least one game in London, a tradition that has helped build the Jaguars’ brand in the UK market. Notably, the 2027 home schedule features high-stakes matchups against fellow Florida rivals, the Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, ensuring that the move to Orlando remains a massive regional draw.
As the Jaguars navigate this transition, the focus remains on the long-term prize: a world-class stadium that secures the NFL’s future in Jacksonville for decades to come.