ORLANDO, Fla. — The Jacksonville Jaguars will play their 2027 home games at Camping World Stadium in Orlando after NFL owners unanimously approved a one-year temporary lease, according to NFL.com. The move comes as EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville undergoes a $1.4 billion renovation, and Camping World Stadium is simultaneously receiving a $400 million facelift to make it NFL-ready. Orlando is expected to host 7–8 NFL games in 2027, including in-state matchups against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Miami Dolphins.
Quick Takeaways
- NFL owners voted unanimously to approve the Jaguars' temporary relocation to Orlando for the 2027 season.
- EverBank Stadium is undergoing a $1.4 billion renovation, forcing the Jaguars to find a temporary home.
- Camping World Stadium is receiving a $400 million renovation to meet NFL standards.
- Orlando could host 7–8 NFL games in 2027, including games against the Buccaneers and Dolphins.
- The Jaguars are expected to return to Jacksonville for the 2028 season.
What Did the NFL Approve?
In a unanimous vote, NFL team owners approved a one-year lease that allows the Jacksonville Jaguars to play their 2027 home schedule at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. The approval was reported by NFL.com. The lease is temporary, covering only the 2027 season, while the Jaguars' permanent home, EverBank Stadium, undergoes a massive $1.4 billion renovation.
The unanimous vote signals strong league-wide support for the arrangement. It also highlights the NFL's willingness to accommodate teams during stadium construction projects, a common occurrence in recent years. The Jaguars will play all of their home games in Orlando, though the exact number of regular-season home games will be determined when the 2027 NFL schedule is released.
Why Are the Jaguars Playing in Orlando?
The Jaguars are not leaving Jacksonville permanently. The move is necessitated by the $1.4 billion renovation of EverBank Stadium, which is expected to modernize the facility and enhance the fan experience. During major stadium construction, it is often impractical or impossible for a team to continue playing in its home venue. The Jaguars explored options and ultimately settled on Orlando, which is about 140 miles south of Jacksonville.
Orlando's Camping World Stadium emerged as the best available option due to its size, location, and ongoing renovation plans. The stadium has a rich history of hosting major events, including college football bowl games, the NFL Pro Bowl, and concerts. With a $400 million facelift underway, it will be better equipped to host NFL games.
What Is the $400 Million Renovation at Camping World Stadium?
Camping World Stadium, which originally opened in 1936 as the Orlando Citrus Bowl, is undergoing a $400 million renovation to make it NFL-ready. According to NFL.com, the facelift is designed to bring the aging venue up to the standards required for NFL regular-season games. While the exact scope of the renovation has not been detailed, typical upgrades for NFL readiness include improvements to locker rooms, playing surface, lighting, seating, and media facilities.
The stadium has undergone several renovations over the decades, most notably a major reconstruction completed in 2014. However, the additional $400 million investment will ensure it meets the specific needs of an NFL team and its fans. The renovation is expected to be completed in time for the 2027 season.
How Many NFL Games Will Orlando Host in 2027?
Orlando is likely to host 7–8 NFL games in 2027, according to NFL.com. That includes the Jaguars' home games and potentially a preseason game. The highlight for many fans will be in-state matchups against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Miami Dolphins. Those games are expected to draw significant crowds from across Florida, creating a unique atmosphere at Camping World Stadium.
The Jaguars typically play eight regular-season home games, though the NFL's 17-game schedule can occasionally result in nine home games. If the Jaguars have eight home games, Orlando would host eight NFL games (plus possibly a preseason game). If they have nine, Orlando could host nine. The source indicates 7–8, so it's likely the Jaguars will have eight home games, with one potentially being a preseason game or the count may vary based on scheduling.
What This Means for Orlando and Central Florida
The arrival of NFL regular-season games is a major win for Orlando's sports scene. The city already boasts the NBA's Orlando Magic, MLS's Orlando City SC, and the NFL Pro Bowl, which has been held at Camping World Stadium in recent years. Hosting 7–8 NFL games will further cement Orlando's reputation as a premier sports destination.
Economically, the games are expected to provide a boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Fans traveling from Jacksonville, Tampa, Miami, and beyond will need accommodations, food, and entertainment. While exact economic impact figures have not been released, the presence of NFL games typically generates millions of dollars for host cities.
For Orlando residents, the games offer a rare opportunity to see their favorite NFL teams—especially the Jaguars, Buccaneers, and Dolphins—without traveling far. It also gives the city a chance to showcase Camping World Stadium on a national stage, potentially attracting future NFL events.
What This Means for the Jaguars and Their Fans
For the Jaguars and their loyal fan base in Jacksonville, the temporary move to Orlando presents both challenges and opportunities. Season ticket holders will have to decide whether to make the 140-mile trip for home games or transfer their tickets. The team is likely to offer some form of accommodation, such as priority access to tickets at Camping World Stadium or transportation options, but details have not been announced.
On the positive side, the Jaguars will gain exposure in a larger market. Orlando is a top tourist destination, and playing there could attract new fans. The team will also benefit from a renovated EverBank Stadium upon their return in 2028, which should improve the game-day experience and generate additional revenue.
For fans in Orlando, the move is a dream come true. They will get to see the Jaguars up close, as well as the Buccaneers and Dolphins when they visit. The in-state matchups are particularly enticing, as they will pit Florida's three NFL teams against each other in a neutral-site environment that will feel like a home game for the Jaguars but with a mix of fans from all teams.
The History of Camping World Stadium
Camping World Stadium has a long and storied history in Orlando. Originally opened in 1936 as the Orlando Citrus Bowl, it has undergone multiple renovations and name changes. It has hosted the Citrus Bowl college football game, the Florida Classic, the NFL Pro Bowl, and major concerts. Its central location and large capacity make it an ideal temporary venue for an NFL team.
The stadium's most recent major renovation was completed in 2014, which modernized much of the facility. The current $400 million facelift is expected to further enhance the stadium's amenities, making it suitable for NFL regular-season games. The investment demonstrates Orlando's commitment to attracting top-tier sports events.
NFL Temporary Relocations: A Growing Trend
The Jaguars' temporary move is not unprecedented. NFL teams have frequently played in alternative venues during stadium construction or renovations. For example, the Minnesota Vikings played at TCF Bank Stadium on the University of Minnesota campus during the 2014 and 2015 seasons while U.S. Bank Stadium was built. The Chicago Bears played at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, Illinois, during the 2002 season while Soldier Field was renovated. The Seattle Seahawks played at Husky Stadium in 2000 and 2001 while their new stadium was under construction.
These temporary relocations allow teams to continue operating while their permanent homes are upgraded. The NFL's unanimous approval for the Jaguars reflects the league's support for such arrangements and its confidence in Camping World Stadium as a suitable host venue.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Team | Jacksonville Jaguars |
| Temporary Venue | Camping World Stadium, Orlando |
| Season | 2027 |
| Approval | Unanimous vote by NFL owners |
| EverBank Stadium Renovation Cost | $1.4 billion |
| Camping World Stadium Renovation Cost | $400 million |
| Expected NFL Games in Orlando | 7–8 |
| Notable Matchups | Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Miami Dolphins |
What to Watch Next
Several key developments will unfold over the next year. The NFL is expected to release the 2027 schedule in the spring of 2027, which will confirm the dates and opponents for the Jaguars' games in Orlando. Ticket information will also be announced, likely through the Jaguars and Camping World Stadium.
The renovation of Camping World Stadium will continue, and updates on its progress will be important to ensure it is ready for NFL play. Additionally, the Jaguars' return to EverBank Stadium in 2028 will be a major milestone, and fans will be eager to see the finished product.
Finally, the success of the 2027 season in Orlando could influence future decisions about hosting NFL games or events in Central Florida. While a permanent NFL team in Orlando is unlikely in the near term, the city has proven it can host major sporting events, and more opportunities could arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Jaguars play all their 2027 home games in Orlando?
Yes, according to the approved lease, all of the Jaguars' 2027 home games will be played at Camping World Stadium in Orlando.
Will Orlando get a permanent NFL team?
There is no indication that Orlando will get a permanent NFL team. This is a one-year temporary arrangement while EverBank Stadium is renovated.
How can I get tickets for the Jaguars games in Orlando?
Ticket information has not yet been released. Fans should monitor the Jacksonville Jaguars' official website and Camping World Stadium's website for announcements.
What other events will Camping World Stadium host during the renovation?
The stadium is expected to continue hosting college football bowl games, concerts, and other events, though the renovation may affect scheduling. Specific details have not been announced.
When will the Jaguars return to Jacksonville?
The Jaguars are expected to return to a renovated EverBank Stadium for the 2028 season.
Conclusion
The NFL's unanimous approval of the Jaguars' temporary move to Orlando is a significant development for both the team and the city. While the Jaguars will temporarily leave their Jacksonville home, the 2027 season at Camping World Stadium offers a unique opportunity for Orlando to shine as an NFL host city. With a $400 million renovation making the stadium NFL-ready and 7–8 games on the schedule, including in-state matchups against the Buccaneers and Dolphins, football fans in Central Florida have plenty to look forward to.
For more details, read the original report on NFL.com.