Sports
Jaguars Expand Head Coach Search Amid Missed Opportunities
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Jaguars are broadening their search for a new head coach after missing out on several top candidates, according to reports. The team is set to interview two candidates this week but plans to expand its search to include additional options.
NFL Network reported that the Jaguars are not limiting their focus to former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh and Las Vegas Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, despite scheduling in-person interviews with both. The team is also expected to pursue interviews with Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady and Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.
The Jaguars’ coaching search has been marked by setbacks. Former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, both of whom interviewed with Jacksonville, opted to take head coaching positions with the Chicago Bears and New York Jets, respectively. Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen, initially considered a favorite for the Jaguars’ job, withdrew from consideration to remain in his current role.
The team’s search has been further complicated by the departure of general manager Trent Baalke, who parted ways with the Jaguars on Wednesday. Team owner Shad Khan had initially committed to retaining Baalke after firing head coach Doug Pederson over two weeks ago. “Trent leaves us with my deepest appreciation for his efforts over the past five seasons,” Khan said in a statement. “Ethan Waugh will serve as interim general manager and play an important role, with others, as we continue the process of interviewing candidates to serve as our new head coach.”
Khan emphasized his commitment to building a winning team, stating, “I am deeply committed to building a winner here in Jacksonville and look forward to introducing a new head coach who will make that happen for our players and fans alike.”
Despite these efforts, the Jaguars face an uphill battle as coaching candidates continue to accept positions elsewhere. Jacksonville is one of four NFL teams still searching for a head coach, leaving them in a competitive race to secure a top candidate. The team will need to differentiate itself to attract a leader capable of turning around its fortunes.