In the aftermath of a heartbreaking 24-20 loss to the Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson was questioned about his job security. His response was succinct: “My status? No.” Despite the team’s dismal 0-4 start, Pederson remains confident in his abilities, and owner Shad Khan and general manager Trent Baalke have given no indication that his job is in jeopardy.
However, the pressure is mounting. Khan had high expectations for this season, declaring it the best Jaguars team ever assembled, with making the playoffs being the ultimate goal. Historically, teams that start 0-4 have a slim chance of making the postseason, with only the 1992 San Diego Chargers achieving this feat.
The Jaguars’ current struggles are compounded by a long list of injuries and underwhelming performances from quarterback Trevor Lawrence and the offense. Pederson’s overall record with the team stands at 18-20, including a 1-9 mark in the last 10 games. Despite winning the AFC South in 2022 and posting back-to-back winning seasons for the first time since 2004-05, the team’s recent slide has raised concerns about Pederson’s future.
One of the primary criticisms this season has been the offense’s lack of production, scoring a mere 60 points in four games. Lawrence’s completion percentage is a disappointing 53.3%, with a minus-12.8% completion percentage over expectation. Pederson was quick to defend his offensive coordinator, Press Taylor, stating that he called a great game and that the coaches can’t make plays on the field.
Despite the frustration, Pederson remains optimistic, believing that the team is close to turning things around. “We’re that close to flipping the switch, making more plays during the games,” he said. “We’re not making them right now, and that’s what’s holding us back.”
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