The Jacksonville Jaguars' New Era Under Liam Coen

The Jacksonville Jaguars are undergoing a major transformation following a disappointing 4–13 season in 2024. The franchise parted ways with head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke, ushering in a new leadership team led by Liam Coen. The changes aim to revitalize the team, particularly through an offensive scheme centered around quarterback Trevor Lawrence and a stronger focus on situational football. With the 5th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Jaguars are in a strong position to acquire key talent to address major weaknesses.

This detailed summary explores the key aspects of the Jaguars' offseason transition, Coen's coaching philosophy, the draft strategy, and the expectations for the 2025 NFL season.

 A Fresh Start: New Leadership and Direction

After a disappointing 2024 season, the Jaguars decided to part ways with Doug Pederson, who had led them to a playoff win just two seasons earlier. Along with Pederson, GM Trent Baalke was also dismissed, signaling a full reset of the team’s leadership.

Liam Coen, a rising name in offensive coaching circles, has been hired as the new head coach. Coen, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Kentucky Wildcats and Los Angeles Rams, is known for his innovative and aggressive offensive play-calling. His primary goal is to unlock the full potential of Trevor Lawrence and create a more dynamic, efficient offense.

The team’s ownership and front office believe that Coen’s approach will provide the stability and structure the franchise has lacked in recent years.

 Offensive Philosophy: Unlocking Trevor Lawrence’s Potential

One of the biggest questions for the Jaguars moving forward is how Liam Coen will reshape the offense. His coaching style emphasizes:

• Situational Football: Improving execution in crucial moments, such as third downs and red-zone opportunities.
• An Aggressive Passing Attack: Expanding Trevor Lawrence’s role as a playmaker, taking more calculated risks downfield.
• Balanced Offense: A greater emphasis on the run game to complement the passing attack and control the pace of play.

Coen’s previous coaching stints have showcased his ability to maximize quarterback potential. He played a role in developing players like Will Levis at Kentucky and worked under Sean McVay with the Rams, contributing to an offense that excelled in passing efficiency.

With Trevor Lawrence entering a critical stage in his career, the expectation is that Coen’s system will help the young quarterback take a major leap forward.

? Defensive Emphasis: Strengthening the Front

While the focus has been on offense, Coen has also stressed the need for a more physical and dominant defensive unit. The Jaguars struggled to stop the run in 2024, often getting overpowered at the line of scrimmage.

Key defensive priorities under the new regime include:

• Bolstering the Defensive Line: Expect the Jaguars to prioritize adding talent in the trenches, either through free agency or the draft.
• Stopping the Run: A stronger commitment to gap discipline and tackling fundamentals.
• Increased Physicality: Instilling a tougher, more aggressive mentality on defense.

By addressing these defensive weaknesses, the Jaguars hope to create a more well-rounded team capable of competing in the AFC.

 2025 NFL Draft: A Crucial Opportunity

The Jaguars hold the 5th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, giving them a golden opportunity to select an impact player. Several positions of need could be addressed, including:

1. Offensive Line – Protecting Trevor Lawrence is a top priority, and an elite tackle or guard could be in play.
2. Defensive Line – A dominant pass rusher or run-stuffer would immediately improve the team’s defense.
3. Wide Receiver – Giving Lawrence another top-tier target could help elevate the passing game.
4. Cornerback – Improving pass coverage is another potential focus area.

With the right draft selections, the Jaguars could take a major step toward contention.

 Can the Jaguars Return to the Playoffs?

The 2025 season presents a fresh opportunity for the Jaguars to rebound from their disappointing 2024 campaign. Success will depend on:

• The effectiveness of Liam Coen’s offensive system and whether it can unlock Trevor Lawrence’s full potential.
• Key roster improvements through the draft and free agency.
• Developing a winning culture that focuses on situational awareness, execution, and discipline.

The AFC remains highly competitive, but with the right adjustments, the Jaguars could position themselves as a legitimate playoff contender.

 Key Takeaways

 New Leadership – Liam Coen has been appointed as head coach, bringing an innovative offensive approach.

 Focus on Offense – The Jaguars will build around Trevor Lawrence with an aggressive, modernized system.

? Defensive Upgrades – Improving the run defense and overall physicality is a key priority.

 5th Overall Pick – The Jaguars have a valuable draft position to add top-tier talent.

 Culture Shift – Coen is emphasizing toughness, discipline, and execution in key moments.

 Trevor Lawrence’s Development – The young quarterback enters a crucial stage in his career under a new system.

 Situational Football – Improved performance in close games will be essential to success.

 Playoff Aspirations – The Jaguars aim to return to competitiveness in the AFC.

 Summary

1. Coaching Change: The Jaguars parted ways with Doug Pederson and hired Liam Coen as their new head coach.

2. Trevor Lawrence’s Development: The team is committed to maximizing Lawrence’s potential under Coen’s offensive system.

3. Balanced Offense: Emphasis on both the passing and running game to create a more efficient attack.

4. Defensive Improvements: Strengthening the defensive line and stopping the run are top priorities.

5. Draft Strategy: The Jaguars hold the 5th overall pick, allowing them to address key roster weaknesses.

6. Team Identity: Coen is working to instill a culture of toughness, discipline, and execution.

7. Situational Football: A major focus on performing better in key game moments.

8. Roster Additions: Expect moves in both free agency and the draft to upgrade weak areas.

9. Competitive AFC: The Jaguars must improve significantly to keep up with AFC rivals.

10. Playoff Hopes: With the right adjustments, Jacksonville could push for postseason contention in 2025.