NFL News: Former Bengals teammate of Joe Burrow joins Jaguars to support Trevor Lawrence

Liam Coen will have his first experience as a head coach in the NFL, facing the tough challenge of leading his Jacksonville Jaguars as far as possible. It won’t be an easy task, but to support Trevor Lawrence, the team decided to bring in a new player—someone who once played alongside Joe Burrow with the Cincinnati Bengals.

The latest news confirms the arrival of Trenton Irwin to the Jaguars, joining an offense looking to take a significant step forward. The wide receiver isn’t coming alone, as the team also announced the addition of defensive end Dawuane Smoot, who is already familiar with playing in Jacksonville.

This was confirmed by NFL insider Adam Schefter, who reported the move through his official account on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting this intriguing roster decision by the team now led by head coach Coen.

“Veteran additions in Jacksonville: Jaguars have signed former Bengals WR Trenton Irwin and DE Dawuane Smoot, who spent seven seasons in Jacksonville,” the insider reported via @AdamSchefter.

Quarterback Joe Burrow #9 and wide receiver Trenton Irwin #16 of the Cincinnati Bengals walk off the field following the Bengals loss to the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on November 16, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland.

The defensive end, for his part, originally joined the Jaguars in 2017 and remained with the team through 2023. After a brief stint with the Bills, he now returns to the franchise where he took his first steps in the NFL.

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What to expect from the Jaguars this upcoming season

Liam Coen’s debut as an NFL head coach brings both excitement and pressure to Jacksonville. Known for his creative offensive schemes during his time at the collegiate level and as an assistant, Coen now takes the reins of a franchise eager to return to playoff contention. His challenge will be to implement a cohesive system quickly while managing a young but talented roster that expects results.

This season could be a turning point in Trevor Lawrence’s career. Entering his fourth year in the league, the former No. 1 overall pick has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency has been elusive. With a retooled offense and a head coach focused on maximizing his strengths, Lawrence has a golden opportunity to elevate his game and cement himself as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing additions to the roster is Travis Hunter, the dynamic two-way player whose arrival adds a new layer of versatility. Whether lining up as a wide receiver or defensive back, Hunter brings explosiveness and playmaking ability that could shift the momentum in key moments.