The Jaguars bet big on Trevor Lawrence for the 2024 season with a new offense under coach Liam Coen and a stunning draft trade for phenom Travis Hunter.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Forget everything you thought you knew about the Jacksonville Jaguars. The franchise has spent the offseason undergoing a radical transformation, led by the new power duo of Head Coach Liam Coen and GM James Gladstone. With owner Shad Khan's blessing, they've initiated a high-risk, high-reward strategy centered on one goal: unlocking the full potential of Trevor Lawrence. Their first, massive move was a draft-day stunner for two-way phenom Travis Hunter, signaling a bold new direction for the team.
CBS Sports analysts predict the Jaguars could finish the 2025 season with a 10-7 record, potentially winning the AFC South.
The winds of change are blowing hard in Jacksonville, and they're coming from the offices of Head Coach Liam Coen and GM James Gladstone. Coen, a first-time head coach, brings an innovative and adaptable offensive scheme designed to put players in positions to succeed. Paired with Gladstone's aggressive and strategic roster management, the duo is fostering a new culture built on player development and a win-now mentality. Owner Shad Khan has fully backed their vision, enabling the bold personnel decisions that have defined this transformative offseason.
You don't signal a new era with a whisper. The Jaguars shouted it from the rooftops by trading multiple high picks to the Browns to move up and select two-way superstar Travis Hunter at No. 2 overall. While Hunter can play both sides of the ball, the plan is clear: he is here to be a primary offensive weapon for Trevor Lawrence. So far in camp, he's seen minimal defensive reps, lining up at wide receiver to form a potentially lethal duo with Brian Thomas Jr. It's a massive bet, but one Gladstone and Coen believe will give the offense an explosive new dimension.
All these moves funnel back to QB1. As minicamp wrapped, Trevor Lawrence looked like a new man. Reports highlighted his increased confidence, sharper decision-making, and a growing chemistry with his new targets. In Coen's system, Lawrence appears more comfortable and empowered, embracing his leadership role. The offense looks more dynamic and in-sync, a welcome sight for fans hoping to see the team rebound from last season's struggles. The franchise has rebuilt the offense around him; early signs suggest he's ready to reward that faith.
For all the excitement about new weapons, the success of this entire experiment hinges on the offensive line. It's been a persistent issue, and the front office knows it. Their potential answer comes in the form of third-round pick Wyatt Milum. The former WVU standout is being counted on to compete for a starting job immediately and help solidify a unit tasked with protecting the franchise's most valuable asset. If Milum can help fix the line's woes, the sky is the limit for this offense. If not, it could be the weak link that unravels the whole plan.
The pieces are on the board. A new coach with a fresh vision, a superstar rookie, and a quarterback who looks poised for a breakout. The optimism is palpable, with analysts even projecting a 10-7 record and a potential AFC South title. But the risks are just as real, resting on the shoulders of a rookie lineman and the ambitious plan for Travis Hunter. The offseason overhaul is complete. Now, all eyes turn to training camp to see if this bold new era in Jacksonville will finally deliver on its immense promise.
