JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson is firmly against the idea of dismissing assistant coaches during the season. His stance remains unchanged even after experiencing one of the worst losses in franchise history, a significant 52-6 defeat against the Detroit Lions. As the team heads into a bye week, Pederson noted that while he is contemplating all options regarding potential changes, maintaining the current coaching staff is his top priority.
“I think you need to exercise caution in these situations,” Pederson stated. “Pointing fingers can lead to a precarious environment, and I’m not willing to engage in that practice. If anyone should take the blame, it should start with me. That is what I believe.”
The Jaguars, currently sitting with a record of 2-9, have plenty of issues to address. They are on a four-game losing streak and have won just two of their last 17 games. Over the past three games, the team’s offense has produced the least amount of yardage in its history, accumulating only 528 yards in losses against Philadelphia (215), Minnesota (143), and Detroit (170). In contrast, the defense has recorded the worst defensive performance in team history over the same three-game stretch, yielding 1,494 yards, including 447 to the Eagles, 402 to the Vikings, and an alarming 645 to the Lions.
Despite the franchise’s sobering performance, owner Shad Khan has chosen to retain both Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke following this particularly damaging defeat. “Football often feels like a battle of survival,” veteran center Mitch Morse acknowledged. “Our team has faced its share of challenges on both sides of the ball. You enter each game knowing you must fight with the resources at your disposal and support the teammates around you. Any player in this locker room will tell you that while nobody expects to lose, it’s crucial to focus on the response to setbacks—it will be a significant test for us.”
On a brighter note, special teams have emerged as a key strength for the Jaguars this season. Punter Logan Cooke has been outstanding, leading the league in net average with 46.4 yards per punt. Additionally, rookie kicker Cam Little has achieved a streak of 13 consecutive successful field goals, including a career-long 59-yarder against the Lions. Safety Daniel Thomas also provided a highlighted moment by tackling punt returner Kalif Raymond inside the 10-yard line.
Looking forward, Pederson suggested that the Jaguars should consider scheduling consecutive games in London each season. After winning three straight following back-to-back appearances in London, the team later struggled, losing five of six games and ultimately missing the playoffs. Currently, they have lost four games, splitting their two contests overseas. “I think it’s worth examining our bye week and strategic timing after experiences in London,” Pederson commented. “Having an early bye week isn’t my favorite approach, so we need to analyze the situation moving forward.”
Rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. showed improvement by catching five passes for 82 yards against the Vikings, his best performance in recent weeks after managing only four receptions for 34 yards in the prior games. Conversely, backup quarterback Mac Jones has faced challenges while filling in for Trevor Lawrence—completing 31 of 51 attempts for 249 yards, without any touchdowns, alongside three interceptions and four sacks.
Injury woes continue for the team, as wide receiver Gabe Davis, who recently signed a three-year, $39 million deal, has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a torn meniscus in his left knee. To date, Davis has amassed 20 receptions for 239 yards and two touchdowns and will join teammate Christian Kirk on injured reserve.
A significant statistic to consider: the Jaguars currently occupy the first overall position in the 2025 NFL Draft. Retaining this status would enable them to secure the top pick for the third time in five years.
As the season progresses, the pivotal questions revolve around what actions Khan will ultimately take regarding Pederson and Baalke, as well as how any forthcoming decisions may enhance Lawrence’s performance in 2025.