Jacksonville Jaguars release list of names set to be interviewed for head coaching vacancy
The Jacksonville Jaguars have parted ways with coach Doug Pederson, and are wasting no time searching for his replacement. The team's official X account announced that they will interview the following names for their head coaching vacancy: Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben JohnsonDetroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron GlennGreen Bay Packers consultant Robert SalehPhiladelphia Eagles offensive […]
The Jacksonville Jaguars have parted ways with coach Doug Pederson, and are wasting no time searching for his replacement.
The team's official X account announced that they will interview the following names for their head coaching vacancy:
- Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson
- Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn
- Green Bay Packers consultant Robert Saleh
- Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore
- Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken
- Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen
- Las Vegas Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham
The first thing that jumps out is that five of those eight names are offensive coordinators. That could be an indication that the Jaguars want their next head coach to be an expert on that side of the ball, especially consider the regression that quarterback Trevor Lawrence had in 2024.
Ben Johnson is arguably the most coveted coach in this year's hiring cycle. He has done a tremendous job with the Lions' offense over the past three years and is just 38-years-old. Kellen Moore, Joe Brady, Todd Monken, and Liam Coen are the other offensive gurus who are looking to become NFL head coaches for the first time.
The only name on that list who has been a head coach is Robert Saleh, who was fired by the New York Jets after Week 5. Saleh compiled a 20-36 record in just over three years with the Jets. His firing was controversial as some thought he deserved more time to turn the corner. Saleh's background is mostly on defense, coaching several different position groups on that side of the ball, and serving as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers for four years.
The cupboard isn't bare talent-wise in Jacksonville. If owner Shahid Khan and general manager Tret Baalke can make the right hire, things could get turned around quickly. Before 2024 the Jaguars posted back-to-back nine-win seasons, including a playoff victory in 2022. Getting the most out of Lawrence and establishing him as a top tier quarterback has to be the top priority for whoever they bring in.
