2024 Season Recap: A Step Back for the Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars had a tough year in 2024, finishing with a 4-13 record and placing third in the AFC South. This marked a significant step backward for the team, which had achieved consecutive 9-8 seasons under head coach Doug Pederson. The disappointing performance led to Pederson’s firing, and the team’s ownership, led by Shad Khan, embarked on an unconventional coaching search. Khan’s decision to poach Liam Coen from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, after Coen had initially agreed to return to Todd Bowles’ staff as offensive coordinator, added a layer of complexity and awkwardness to the hiring process. The situation became even more complicated when Khan, who had caused a stir by showcasing his superyacht during Super Bowl week, fired general manager Trent Baalke. The Jaguars finally secured James Gladstone from the Rams’ front office on February 21 as their new GM.
A New Era with Liam Coen
Liam Coen brings an impressive résumé to the Jaguars, having played a key role in the Buccaneers’ offensive success. His hiring signals a significant reset for the team, which will need to address multiple areas to return to contention. One of the most pressing issues is the defense, which ranked 31st in the NFL in 2024, allowing an average of 390 yards per game. The 2025 NFL Draft, where the Jaguars have the No. 5 pick, offers an opportunity to bolster the defense immediately. However, the team also faces numerous offseason questions, particularly in getting quarterback Trevor Lawrence back on track. Coen’s experience with turning around quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield and Geno Smith could be invaluable in this effort.
Key Free Agents and Priorities
The Jaguars have several key free agents to consider, including right guard Brandon Scherff, quarterback Mac Jones, safety Andre Cisco, tight end Luke Farrell, and offensive guard Blake Hance. Re-signing Scherff should be a top priority, given the team’s need to strengthen the interior offensive line. Hance provides valuable depth, and Cisco’s re-signing would be beneficial due to the team’s thinness in the secondary. The decision to re-sign Jones is more complex. While Coen’s track record with quarterbacks could help Jones, the quarterback might find better opportunities elsewhere. The Jaguars will need to weigh their options carefully to ensure they have the right pieces in place for the 2025 season.
Addressing Critical Needs
The Jaguars have several pressing needs to address in the offseason. One of the most significant is at wide receiver, where the team struggled in 2024. Brian Thomas, a standout from the previous draft, is a positive sign, but the Jaguars need more production from the position. Christian Kirk, who played only eight games due to a broken collarbone, is a key player, but his future with the team is uncertain. The pass defense was the worst in the NFL, so reinforcing the secondary, especially at cornerback, is crucial. Bolstering the pass rush is also important, though this might be addressed through the draft.
Financial Flexibility and Potential Cuts
The Jaguars have the financial flexibility to address these needs, with the team projected to be approximately $34 million under the salary cap, according to Spotrac. This places them in the middle of the pack in the NFL. Notable potential cuts include wide receivers Christian Kirk and Josh Reynolds, and tight end Evan Engram. Releasing Kirk would create $10.43 million in cap space, making this a likely move. With Brenton Strange moving up the depth chart at tight end, Engram’s release would net $5.98 million in cap savings. Releasing Reynolds would open up an additional $4.26 million. These moves could provide the team with the necessary cap space to make key acquisitions.
Draft Strategy and Key Targets
The Jaguars have several draft picks, including the No. 5 pick in the first round, which offers a golden opportunity to address their needs. Cornerback is a critical position, and Will Johnson from Michigan is a strong candidate to be selected. Johnson figures to be the top CB available, assuming Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter is already off the board by the No. 5 selection. However, the Jaguars could also use their top pick to address needs at defensive line and receiver. Trading down is also a viable strategy, especially if it helps acquire a veteran talent to fill an immediate need. Coen and Gladstone will need to focus on building a young, talented offensive line, similar to the approach taken by the Buccaneers in recent seasons. The potential for significant improvement is there, and the Jaguars’ fans are eager to see what this new regime can achieve.
