JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The Jacksonville Jaguars' training camp has been a rollercoaster for Brian Thomas Jr., the team's rising star wide receiver. Known for his impressive rookie season, Thomas has faced his share of struggles this year, particularly in connecting with quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

During a one-on-one drill, Lawrence threw a high pass intended for Thomas, who managed to get a hand on it but couldn't complete the catch. Frustrated, Thomas kicked the football, a reaction that has become somewhat common during this camp. He has also been seen slamming his helmet to the ground after drops or incompletions.

However, Thomas insists that these reactions are not out of frustration but rather a sign of his determination to push through adversity. "I wouldn't say it was frustration," Thomas explained. "It was me just fighting through adversity. Everybody's fighting through adversity. So just coming out here, just pushing, just trying to be the best version of myself."

Receivers coach Edgar Bennett has had conversations with Thomas about his reactions. Bennett understands that Thomas's competitive nature drives him to expect perfection in every play. "Each and every guy handles it different ways," Bennett said. "But I think Brian, he knows the best way to handle situations like that. It comes down to being ultra-competitive, which we all understand."

Despite the challenges, Thomas has shown flashes of brilliance. In the team's first scrimmage, he caught two touchdown passes, and he has made three catches in three drives during the Jaguars' first two preseason games. His performance in joint practices with the Miami Dolphins was particularly noteworthy, as he elevated his play above his usual camp standards.

Offensive coordinator Grant Udinski appreciates Thomas's high standards and sees his frustration as part of the growth process. "I think that he holds himself to a high standard, which we appreciate, and when he doesn't play to the standard that he holds himself to, sometimes that comes out in frustration," Udinski said. "This is what practice is about. You're trying to improve on things. You're trying to put yourself in challenging situations."

Thomas's rookie season set a high bar. He finished third in the NFL with 1,281 receiving yards, a franchise rookie record. His 82 receptions and 10 touchdown catches (tied with Allen Hurns) were also record-breaking. With the addition of rookie Travis Hunter and veteran Dyami Brown, the Jaguars' offense is expected to be even more dynamic in 2025.

Thomas is ready for the increased expectations and sees them as motivation. "Yeah, I'm definitely ready for [increased expectations]," he said. "Definitely welcome it. I just take it on as motivation and just go out there and push myself to be the best that I can be and just knowing what's expected from me."