Jacksonville Jaguars Nation in Shock as Beloved Die-Hard Fan “Big Jack” Johnson Passes Away — Decades-Long Symbol of Unwavering Team Spirit Remembered by Players and Fans Alike; Memorial Planned at EverBank Stadium to Honor the Man Whose Roar Echoed Through Every Game Since the Franchise’s Inception.
Jacksonville, FL — The Jacksonville Jaguars community is mourning the loss of one of its most passionate and long-standing supporters, James “Big Jack” Johnson, who passed away peacefully late Friday night at the age of 68. Known affectionately by fans as the “Heart of the Duval Roar,” Big Jack’s energy, loyalty, and devotion to the team transcended the boundaries of ordinary fandom.
For nearly three decades, Johnson’s voice was a familiar sound at EverBank Stadium. Dressed head-to-toe in teal and black, with his signature jaguar-painted face and roaring chants, he became a fixture of Jaguars culture. Whether rain or shine, victory or heartbreak, he never missed a single home game since the team’s founding in 1995. Players, coaches, and fans alike described him as the living embodiment of Jacksonville pride.
“Big Jack wasn’t just a fan — he was the Jaguars,” said current head coach Doug Pederson during Saturday’s press conference. “Every time we stepped on the field, we could hear his voice booming from the stands. He gave this city an identity of loyalty and strength. His passion was contagious.”
Johnson’s story began in the early ’90s when Jacksonville was still fighting for an NFL franchise. As a local mechanic and lifelong football lover, he rallied community support by organizing meetups, fan parades, and public watch parties. When the Jaguars were officially announced as an expansion team in 1993, Big Jack was one of the first season ticket holders — a title he proudly held for 30 straight years.
Over time, his legacy grew. He was featured in local sports documentaries, national fan segments on ESPN, and honored during halftime in 2018 for “Exemplary Spirit of the Jaguars Nation.” His passion extended beyond football; he organized charity drives under the banner “Jags Fans for Change,” raising funds for underprivileged kids in Jacksonville’s east side.
Social media erupted early Saturday morning with heartfelt tributes from current and former players. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence posted on X (formerly Twitter): “We play for fans like Big Jack. His roar will always be part of our team. Rest easy, legend.” The Jaguars organization also announced that they will dedicate their next home game to Johnson, with a special tribute video and a pregame moment of silence.
Fans have already begun leaving flowers, teal jerseys, and handwritten letters at Gate 2 of EverBank Stadium, where Big Jack used to lead the pregame chants. Local radio stations are planning to play his favorite song — “Eye of the Tiger” — before Sunday’s matchup.
The city of Jacksonville plans to host a public memorial next week, giving fans a chance to share memories and celebrate a life that united thousands through football and friendship.
- As the Jaguars prepare for their next game, one thing is certain: Big Jack’s spirit — bold, loud, and forever faithful — will echo through the stands, reminding everyone what it truly means to be part of the Duval family.