Jacksonville Jaguars owners Shahid Khan decided on Monday that head coach Doug Pederson must leave after their team underachieved expectations in 2016. Yet they chose to retain general manager Trent Baalke; something which caused much debate amongst fans.
After this season has concluded, Khan’s focus has turned towards finding a new head coach for the Jaguars and an extensive search process is already under way. They expressed interest in meeting Brian Flores – former Dolphins head coach and current Vikings defensive coordinator; seen by many as having dramatically strengthened Minnesota’s defense; Flores is considered an outstanding potential candidate to fill their vacancy as head coach of their head coaching role at Jacksonville Jaguars.
According to a statement released by the team on Wednesday, the Jaguars are eager to interview Flores. However, his availability for an interview depends on the Vikings’ playoff progression, with an in-person meeting possible the week following their elimination, should it occur.
Critics of this development include NFL fans on social media. Amid calls for a new head coach and general manager Trent Baalke being dismissed, fan sentiment has intensified for Ben Johnson as the Lions offensive coordinator to become their next head coach; but instead insist he first be let go from his position with Baalke’s dismissal being required before any consideration can be given to being named head coach himself.
As the Jaguars navigate a difficult transition period, their focus remains on finding a new coach while dealing with allegations surrounding their general manager.