The Jacksonville Jaguars are close to hiring Tampa Bay offensive coordinator Liam Coen as their new head coach, according to reports. This move would mark a significant change in the team’s leadership and comes after owner Shad Khan decided to part ways with general manager Trent Baalke.
Details are still being finalized, but an announcement could be made as soon as Friday. Coen has informed the Buccaneers of his decision to join the Jaguars, though neither side has publicly confirmed the ongoing negotiations. The sides are working through contract details before finalizing the agreement.
Baalke’s Departure Opens the Door for Coen
Shad Khan’s decision to fire Trent Baalke on Wednesday cleared the way for Coen to accept the position. Coen had initially turned down an in-person interview with the Jaguars due to his concerns about Baalke, who has a negative reputation in the NFL. Baalke was the one who convinced Khan to fire Super Bowl-winning coach Doug Pederson after just his third season with the Jaguars.
Coen had agreed to a new deal with the Buccaneers that would have made him one of the highest-paid coordinators in the NFL. However, he never signed the contract and secretly traveled to Jacksonville for a meeting with Khan and interim general manager Ethan Waugh.
Coen Impressed in Interviews
Coen had been a top candidate for the job since his virtual interview with Khan last week, where he reportedly impressed the owner. His candidacy gained momentum, especially after Detroit’s offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson, took the Chicago job.
Khan quickly realized that Baalke needed to be removed to secure a coach who could develop the team’s offense, particularly working with quarterback Trevor Lawrence and receiver Brian Thomas Jr.
Coen’s Success with Tampa Bay’s Offense
At just 39 years old, Coen was responsible for one of Tampa Bay’s most productive offenses in 2024. The Buccaneers ranked third in the NFL in yards per game (399.6) and fourth in points (29.5).
Coen became the first NFL coordinator in 25 years to achieve several impressive stats, including averaging over 28 points a game, gaining more than 6 yards per play, converting over 50% on third downs, and scoring touchdowns 65% of the time in the red zone.
Coen’s work with quarterback Baker Mayfield and rookie running back Bucky Irving impressed many, even suggesting that the Bucs should move coach Todd Bowles into another role to keep Coen as head coach. However, it now seems that Coen is ready to make the move to Jacksonville.
Questions Moving Forward
If Coen is officially hired, there are several important questions about the structure of the team. Would Khan hire an executive vice president to support Coen? Would Coen bring in his own general manager, or would interim GM Ethan Waugh remain in the role? These questions remain unanswered, but the Jaguars are confident that they have one of the best coaching opportunities available in the NFL.
A Bright Future for the Jaguars
The Jaguars have several assets that make the position appealing. They have a promising young quarterback in Trevor Lawrence, an emerging star in receiver Brian Thomas Jr., and key defensive players like cornerback Tyson Campbell and pass rushers Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen.
The team is also set to benefit from a $1.4 billion stadium renovation, has significant salary cap space, and is set to pick fifth in the upcoming draft.
Jacksonville plays in the AFC South, one of the weakest divisions in the NFL, which makes it an attractive job for a new head coach. The team also has no state income tax and plenty of sunshine, which adds to the appeal.
Challenges Ahead for the Jaguars
However, there are some challenges for Coen if he takes the job. Owner Shad Khan is committed to hosting at least one home game each season in London, which could put the team at a competitive disadvantage. Additionally, the Jaguars will play some home games in 2026 in front of a reduced stadium capacity and will be away from Jacksonville for the entire 2027 season.
The Jaguars also have several aging veterans on the roster, including receiver Christian Kirk, defensive end Arik Armstead, tight end Evan Engram, linebacker Foye Oluokun, center Mitch Morse, and guard Brandon Scherff. The team is still searching for a clear identity, which could make the rebuild challenging for a new head coach.
