Jags Luncheon Draws Fans, Kickoff Nears

A luncheon that marked the first official event of Jaguars Kickoff Week felt like a pep rally for those in attendance Tuesday.

Just ahead of the Jaguars' season open against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, excitement for the 16th NFL season in Jacksonville is running higher than in seasons past.

That was on display at the luncheon as the Jaguar players came in one by one and dined with some of their biggest fans.

"The lull was last year. Now this year it's renewed," Jags fan Jason Zook said.

"The enthusiasm is so much greater than it has been in the '90s. It's amazing," Jags fan Sharon added. "I live for this time of year."

Single-game tickets were sold out and the blackout has been lifted for the first game, both of which might have something to do with former Florida Gator Tim Tebow making his NFL debut in his hometown.

"One thing we want to do is let everybody know that we don't really need Tebow. We've got our own power," Jaguars fan Linda Riggs said.

"The Gators have had a lot of success with him, so I see why a lot of people in this area support him, but hopefully some of those people will support the Jaguars the same way they support Tim Tebow," former Jaguars tight end Damon Jones said.

The luncheon was sponsored by the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, a sign that the Jaguars and local economy go hand and hand.

Politicians like Mayor John Peyton, who sat with team owner Wayne Weaver and State Sen. John Thrasher, said they know that any season in Jacksonville is a winning season.

Ticket prices for the opening game are through the roof, and while some agree it's partially due to Tebow's return, people are also attributing it to some brilliant marketing on the part of the Jaguars this past year.