The Jaguars are chasing Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen for their head coach spot. Could he really leave Tampa Bay? Here’s what’s happening.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen is caught in a bit of a whirlwind right now.
After a great year with the Bucs, he’s being heavily pursued by the Jacksonville Jaguars to become their next head coach.
Even though Coen and the Bucs reportedly agreed on a new deal, Jacksonville isn’t ready to take no for an answer.
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Why Jacksonville Wants Coen
The Jaguars had a rough time on offense last season, averaging just 18.8 points per game, which was one of the worst in the league.
Meanwhile, Coen helped the Bucs light it up, putting up 29.5 points per game—one of the best in the NFL—and leading them to the playoffs with a 10-7 record.
Jacksonville sees Coen as the guy who can turn their team around. After firing their general manager, Trent Baalke, the Jags made it clear to Coen: He can pick his own GM and they’ll pay him like a top head coach.
Rumor has it, they’re offering him a deal close to what Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson is making—around $13 million a year.
Coen’s Dilemma
At first, Coen told Jacksonville he was staying in Tampa.
He even let Bucs head coach Todd Bowles know that he was committed to the team.
But after Jacksonville fired Baalke, they came back with another offer. Now, Coen seems to be reconsidering.
Here’s where it gets messy: While Tampa Bay says Coen agreed to an extension, he never actually signed it.
On top of that, the Bucs reportedly haven’t been able to get in touch with him recently.
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What Happens Next?
Coen’s decision is also affecting other candidates for the Jaguars’ job.
Former Jets head coach Robert Saleh was supposed to interview for the role, but he’s now waiting to see what happens with Coen.
The big question is: Will Coen stick with Tampa Bay, where he’s had success, or take on the challenge of rebuilding Jacksonville? The Jaguars are clearly all-in on him, and it seems like it’s up to Coen to decide if he wants to take the leap.
What do you think? Should Coen stay in Tampa, or is Jacksonville the right move for his career? Let us know!
Also Read: Jaguars Fire GM Trent Baalke Amid Coaching Search