The upcoming NFL season will feature several teams that, unfortunately, have not been getting good results for a while, making it crucial for them to turn things around immediately. The Jacksonville Jaguars are one of them, and with the hiring of Liam Coen, combined with the talent of Trevor Lawrence, Shad Khan‘s franchise aims to become a contender in the AFC South.
According to what was reflected by the Jaguars‘ owner to the press, one of the main goals of hiring the former Buccaneers offensive coordinator is to make a positive impact on Lawrence’s game, in whom they trust to lead the team.
“I think we interviewed 10 potential candidates. I think with the lack of success we’ve had here, certainly over the last year and a half, it’s a chance for reflection from me. I think what was the fundamental thing that we need to address, and the number one thing, obviously, is the quarterback position. Our commitment to Trevor, I think it’s well known and believe in him,” Khan said weeks ago to the press.
Additionally, Khan reflected on the steps taken to eventually land the ideal candidate for the HC position, which ultimately turned out to be Liam Coen.
“So, it started with that. That was the fundamental question, really, to all the candidates. How would they do it? After we got done with that, it was very evident to me that Liam was the guy. I had never met Liam until the process started, but I had heard about him quite a bit over the last year from really, as I said, solicited and unsolicited. NFL has several events. I’ve been to them. The topic comes up and his name was prominently mentioned. So, I really wanted to make sure that he was part of the 10, and as we went through the process, I mean, it was absolutely compelling he’s the right guy for us.”
Coen values Lawrence’s tough mentality
Already confirmed as the new captain of the Jaguars’ ship, one of the main qualities Liam Coen highlighted regarding Trevor Lawrence is his mentality. He made this clear after appearing on the ‘Pardon My Take’ podcast.
“So when I got with him, you know, a couple weeks ago, it’s just, you felt a dude that just wants to go take it to the next level. He’s mentally and physically tough. He’s been able to go through a lot of stuff, and he’s been through a ton of change. And all he wants to do is be great. Like, he really does,” Coen said.
“He just wants to go be coached, go pour into this thing. And I think he’s primed to go do that. Yeah, he’s going through a ton of like, ton of change right now. Obviously, had the injuries, a new father, new coaching staff for the third time now, right? Ton of humility. But like, he’s got a feeling where he’s like, ‘Man, I need to kind of play to my potential. I haven’t reached it yet,’ and that’s cool to see.”
What to expect from these Jaguars?
While it’s a period of transition within the franchise, many believe the Jaguars are one of those teams that could turn out to be a pleasant surprise in the upcoming NFL season.
The arrival of Liam Coen at the helm, along with retaining key pieces in the roster like Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne, among others, makes people believe that this could be a big year for Jacksonville.
With the draft ahead, it will be a matter of seeing which options they select from College Football to continue strengthening their lines. Even so, within the franchise, there are high expectations for a great year, one that at least improves on past results.