Jaguars’ Patrick Mekari to miss time after back procedure

This isn’t the first time Mekari’s back has been a problem. The 28-year-old dealt with the same issue for much of the 2025 season, missing the final two games of the regular season with a back injury before it flared up again in the Wild Card round against the Buffalo Bills, forcing him out of that game as well. He was ruled out in Week 17 against the Indianapolis Colts and again in Week 18 versus the Tennessee Titans after being unable to practice through the week. With the injury lingering into the offseason, a procedure now appears to be the next step toward resolving it long-term.

Mekari signed a three-year, $37.5 million deal with Jacksonville in March 2025 and started at right guard for most of last season. His absence opens the door for competition at right guard, a battle that was already shaping up this summer between Mekari and second-year lineman Wyatt Milum before this latest development. When Mekari has missed time in the past, left tackle Walker Little has shifted over to guard to fill the void, and that could again be an option if the Jaguars need a stopgap early in the season.

For now, Jacksonville is choosing to wait before making any roster move, keeping its options open on the injured reserve question. Given his recurring back trouble, the Jaguars’ medical staff will likely take a cautious approach with Mekari’s recovery timeline as the regular season opener approaches, prioritizing his long-term health over a rushed return to the lineup.