Jags to Interview Doug Pederson and Jim Caldwell for their Head Coaching Vacancy

Eagles Head Coach Doug Pederson in 2016.
Eagles Head Coach Doug Pederson in 2016. Image via Teed Johnson/Wikipdeia

After the Urban Meyer disaster, the Jacksonville Jaguars opted to take a risk-free approach while searching for a new head coach. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Jags already have several names on their shortlist, all of whom have a longtime experience in the NFL.

The first name on the list is Doug Pederson, who is certainly one of the most accomplished candidates available. Pederson served as a head coach for the Philadelphia Eagles for five years and has a Super Bowl win on his resume. During his time in Philly, he also led the Eagles to two NFC East titles and three playoff appearances while compiling a 42–37–1 record in the regular season.

Jacksonville also has an interest in former Indianapolis Colts and Detroit Lions head coach Jim Caldwell. He spent three years with the Colts and led the franchise to the postseason twice while accomplishing the same feat during his four years with the Lions. Caldwell’s most recent job in the NFL was serving as an assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach for the Miami Dolphins in 2019.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich is also believed to be among potential candidates. Leftwich is highly-respected in the NFL while also having a connection with the Jaguars. He was the franchise’s quarterback for four years between 2003 and 2006, starting 44 games in the Jags’ uniform.

The Jacksonville Jaguars hired Urban Meyer to be their next franchise head coach even though Meyer never coached in NFL. The move backfired as Meyer got involved in several off-the-field controversies while failing to deliver on the field. The Jags had it enough with Meyer after 13 games and fired him while installing offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.