The Jacksonville Jaguars coaching search is underway and the franchise is the first NFL team to officially begin interviewing NFL coaching candidates. While interviews are just beginning, there already seems to be a theme emerging that hints at a future hire.
Jacksonville’s process is likely to play out far differently than it did a year again. Owner Shad Khan adored Urban Meyer and hired him just days after firing Doug Marrone. But a hurried search backfired with Jacksonville cutting bait on Meyer after numerous scandals.
The Jaguars’ coaching search continues this week just days after Khan met with former Philadelphia Eagles head coach Doug Pederson for several hours. Jacksonville requested meetings and will interview with Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich and Bucs’ defensive coordinator Todd Bowles.
While Moore and Leftwich lack significant NFL coaching experience, the other candidates have all led NFL teams. It’s reportedly part of Jacksonville’s plan, one that may influence who gets the job.
- Jacksonville Jaguars record (2018-’21): 14-50
According to Pro Football Network’s Tony Pauline, the Jaguars are targeting veteran coaches who can gain the trust of a locker room and change the culture left in the wake of the Meyer era.
“They want a veteran. A guy who is not only going to change the culture of the locker room but change the culture of the franchise. They want a guy with high character, a guy who is well respected. That is why you are hearing the names of Caldwell and Pederson.”
NFL insider Tony Pauline on Jacksonville Jaguars coaching search
While Caldwell isn’t one of the most popular names on coaching candidate lists, he is an appealing option that is perfect for Jacksonville’s criteria. As the Indianapolis Colts head coach (2009-’11), he delivered double-digit win seasons in his first two years and was only fired after the Peyton Manning injured resulted in a 2-14 record.
But Caldwell also found rare success with the Detroit Lions. He recorded 36 wins across three seasons in Detroit, making him one of the few head coaches with a winning record in franchise history. He is also great with quarterbacks, which would benefit Trevor Lawrence.
Pederson also brings plenty of experience as an NFL head coach and also has a Super Bowl ring on his resume. Notably, both Caldwell and Pederson are recognized for their work with offenses. If the Jaguars go in that direction, Vic Fangio is reportedly a strong candidate to become the Jaguars’ defensive coordinator.
