Jaguars' New Coach Coen Puts Spotlight on Rushing Game and Lawrence's Strengths

Daytona Beach, USA - As the Jacksonville Jaguars gear up for the upcoming NFL season, all eyes are on the newly appointed head coach, Liam Coen. With his wealth of experience and a track record that includes stints at Kentucky and the Los Angeles Rams, Coen brings a refreshing approach to the Jaguars‘ struggling offense. He aims to revamp their rushing game, which has been a significant area of concern in recent seasons. Coen’s coaching philosophy centers on maximizing the potential of quarterback Trevor Lawrence, and he’s keen to emphasize more rushing plays, possibly even incorporating Lawrence’s own legs into the offensive strategy more frequently this year. This focus is expected to surface early in the regular season, with fans watching closely to see how the team adjusts under his leadership. Jaguars.com reports that the team’s leadership trio, which also includes General Manager James Gladstone and Hall of Famer Tony Boselli, is rooted in rich football experience, making them a formidable force as they collaborate on enhancing team performance.

What makes this coaching transition particularly intriguing is Coen’s personal connection to Lawrence. Having scouted him back in high school, Coen recognized the quarterback’s standout talent long before he became the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. This familiarity fosters a unique bond that Coen believes will translate into improved on-field performance. At his introductory press conference, Lawrence demonstrated his support, attending alongside teammates like Christian Kirk and Gabe Davis. This camaraderie hints at a united front as they prepare to tackle challenges ahead. According to an article from Jacksonville.com, Jaguars owner Shad Khan underscored the significance of the quarterback position and remarked that Coen emerged as the prime candidate due to his insightful interviews.

Tackling the Ground Game

Under Coen’s guidance, the Jaguars are expected to prioritize their rushing offense, which could breathe new life into their somewhat dormant attack. Coen’s experience in building high-performing offenses, as evidenced during his time with the Buccaneers, is likely to influence Jacksonville’s play-calling. Notably, his Buccaneers team excelled in screen game efficiency, which could serve as a model for the Jaguars. Coen aims to design plays that enhance both rushing and passing dynamics, moving away from the low percentage of effective throws previously observed in Lawrence’s game. An analysis by The 33rd Team points out that the Jaguars’ former offensive strategies put a premium on precision, leaving little room for error. Improving on these fronts will be crucial as they head into the new season.

The Jaguars have their work cut out for them, especially given that last season, they ranked poorly in offensive stats—registering just 2,045 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. As the youngest head coach in franchise history, Coen is keenly aware of the expectations that accompany his role. His commitment to improving the offense signals a renewed hope for fans who have watched the team struggle over recent seasons.

Around the League

With the NFL landscape constantly evolving, Coen’s strategies could be pivotal not just for his own team but also set a benchmark for other offenses in the league. The focus on enhancing running plays and incorporating quarterback rushing appears to be a developing trend in the NFL. Teams are increasingly recognizing the advantages of utilizing mobile quarterbacks in more dynamic ways. As Coen embarks on this journey, Jaguars fans can feel a sense of optimism amidst the uncertainty that previous seasons have brought.

As the Jaguars prepare for the kickoff of the new season, all eyes will be on how Coen’s plans unfold on the field. Will they find their footing with an invigorated rushing offense and a revitalized quarterback at the helm? One thing is certain: 2025 could be a turning point for the franchise, provided they effectively harness the talents at their disposal.