JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Jaguars are nearing the conclusion of their head coaching search with the anticipated hiring of Liam Coen, the offensive coordinator from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This development follows the decision by owner Shad Khan to part ways with general manager Trent Baalke, which played a significant role in Coen’s shift in interest toward Jacksonville.
Negotiations regarding the contract were actively taking place, with a formal announcement expected on Friday, according to a source familiar with the ongoing process. Coen has reportedly communicated his decision to the Buccaneers about pursuing the Jaguars’ offer, but details were not officially confirmed by either party.
Khan’s decision to release Baalke was pivotal, allowing Coen the freedom to consider the Jacksonville position. Initially, Coen was hesitant to interview in-person with the Jaguars due to Baalke’s presence, who has faced criticism within the league and was instrumental in the decision to fire Super Bowl-winning coach Doug Pederson after his third season with the team.
Instead of following through with a new lucrative contract offer from Tampa Bay that would have made him among the league’s top-paid coordinators, Coen made an unseen trip to Jacksonville to discuss potential opportunities with Khan and interim general manager Ethan Waugh. Although a deal was not finalized on his visit, there appears to be swift movement toward an agreement soon.
Coen’s candidacy had seemingly gained momentum, especially after he performed exceptionally well in a virtual interview with Khan last week, positioning himself as a leading candidate. His chances were further boosted following the decision of Detroit offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to take up a position in Chicago, thereby eliminating another competitor for the Jaguars’ head coach role.
Realizing that Baalke’s involvement was thwarting progress, Khan acted decisively to create space for a fresh, innovative offensive strategy working alongside promising players like quarterback Trevor Lawrence and budding receiver Brian Thomas Jr. Khan expressed the desire for a head coach who would instill creativity within the organization, emphasizing the need for unpredictability in modern football strategy.
At 39, Coen was responsible for crafting one of the most successful offensive units in Buccaneers’ history in 2024, as the team ranked third in the league in total yards per game and fourth in scoring. His outstanding track record included being the first NFL coordinator in over 25 years to achieve an average of more than 28 points per game, alongside impressive third-down conversion rates and efficiency in the red zone.
The remarkable progress shown with players such as quarterback Baker Mayfield and rookie running back Bucky Irving has led to discussions among fans about Coen potentially taking over coaching duties from the 61-year-old Todd Bowles, as they recognized his effectiveness.
If Coen takes on the head coach role in Jacksonville, several key questions regarding future management structure and team dynamics will arise. Would Waugh remain with the team, or would Coen opt to bring in a new general manager? Additionally, could an executive vice president be appointed to support Coen in his new role as a first-time head coach?
The Jaguars view the coaching position as one of the most attractive opportunities available in the league, particularly following Baalke’s exit. The franchise features talents like quarterback Lawrence, developing star Thomas, and promising defensive assets such as cornerback Tyson Campbell, pass rushers Travon Walker, and Josh Hines-Allen. Added benefits include recent facility upgrades, a massive renovation to their stadium underway, and a supportive owner with significant financial resources.
The Jaguars hold the crucial fifth overall pick in the upcoming draft and possess around $50 million in salary cap space for the 2025 season. Competing in a relatively weak AFC South division offers additional optimism, as does the favorable climate of Florida, which boasts no state income tax. However, despite their opportunities, the franchise still contends with challenges, including Khan’s commitment to host at least one game per year in London, possibly hindering their competitive edge.
The aging core of players, such as receiver Christian Kirk and defensive end Arik Armstead, coupled with a lack of a solid team identity, remains a concern for the franchise as they look toward the future.
