Coen’s Playbook: How the New Jaguars Coach Plans to Unleash Trevor Lawrence

The Jacksonville Jaguars are coming off a disappointing 4-13 season in 2024, a far cry from the playoff aspirations many had for them. A significant factor in their struggles was the inconsistent performance of quarterback Trevor Lawrence, the former No. 1 overall pick. Now, with Liam Coen stepping in as the new head coach, the focus is clear: unlock Lawrence’s full potential and transform the Jaguars’ offense into a force to be reckoned with.

Coen’s Coaching Pedigree: A McVay Disciple

Liam Coen arrives in Jacksonville with a strong coaching pedigree, honed under the tutelage of Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay. After coaching stops at Brown, Rhode Island, UMass and Maine, Coen joined the Rams in 2018, serving as assistant wide receivers coach (2018-2019) and assistant quarterbacks coach (2020). This experience exposed him to McVay’s innovative offensive schemes and his ability to maximize quarterback performance. Coen’s time with the Rams, coupled with successful stints as offensive coordinator at the University of Kentucky and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has prepared him for the challenge of revitalizing the Jaguars’ offense.

The Challenge: Revitalizing Lawrence

Trevor Lawrence’s career has been a rollercoaster. After a rocky rookie season under Urban Meyer, there were flashes of brilliance in 2022 and 2023. However, the 2024 season saw Lawrence struggle with injuries and inconsistency, leading to questions about his long-term potential. In 2024, Lawrence missed countless practice time and eight games over the past two seasons, including seven in 2024 because of a shoulder injury and a concussion. He is now running his third offense in five seasons. Coen, general manager James Gladstone and top executive Tony Boselli made it a priority to protect Lawrence better, improve the team’s rushing attack and add more talent at receiver. Coen also tweaked Lawrence’s mechanics and installed a quick-throw scheme.

Coen’s Offensive Philosophy: A Blend of Innovation and Fundamentals

Coen’s offensive philosophy is centered around creating a quarterback-friendly system that emphasizes quick reads, accurate throws, and a strong running game. He aims to build an attack that is both explosive and efficient, capable of stretching the field vertically while also controlling the clock with a consistent ground game. Coen’s success with Baker Mayfield in Tampa Bay last season, where the Buccaneers’ offense ranked third in yards (399.5) and fourth in points (29.5), provides a glimpse of what he hopes to achieve with Lawrence in Jacksonville.

Key Elements of Coen’s Playbook

Several key elements are expected to be central to Coen’s playbook in Jacksonville:

Quick Passing Game: Coen is expected to implement a quick passing game that allows Lawrence to get the ball out of his hands quickly, minimizing the risk of sacks and turnovers. This will involve a focus on short, high-percentage throws to receivers like Brian Thomas Jr., Travis Hunter, and Dyami Brown.
Play-Action Emphasis: Coen is likely to utilize play-action passes to exploit defenses and create opportunities for big plays downfield. Lawrence has shown the ability to be effective in play-action situations, and Coen will look to build on that strength.
Rushing Attack: Establishing a consistent rushing attack will be crucial to Coen’s offensive game plan. Travis Etienne Jr. will be the primary ball carrier, and Coen will aim to create running lanes for him through a combination of scheme and improved offensive line play.
Utilizing Lawrence’s Mobility: Coen has indicated that he will consider using Lawrence in short-yardage and goal-line situations, potentially incorporating quarterback sneaks and “tush push” plays. Lawrence’s size and athleticism make him a viable option in these scenarios.

Player Roles and Expectations

Trevor Lawrence (QB): The success of Coen’s playbook hinges on Lawrence’s ability to execute the offense efficiently and make smart decisions. Coen will work to refine Lawrence’s mechanics, improve his decision-making, and build his confidence.
Travis Etienne Jr. (RB): Etienne will be the focal point of the Jaguars’ rushing attack. Coen will look to maximize his explosiveness and versatility, utilizing him as both a runner and a receiver.
Brian Thomas Jr. (WR): The rookie is expected to make an immediate impact as a deep threat. Coen will design plays to take advantage of his speed and ability to stretch the field.
Travis Hunter (WR/CB): Hunter’s unique two-way ability will provide Coen with a versatile weapon. He can contribute as a receiver, a cornerback, and a special teams player.
Tim Patrick (WR): Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen may seek a Mike Evans-esque role on the outside for Tim Patrick after the 31-year-old was acquired from the Detroit Lions.

The Madden 26 Factor

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ offensive playbook is known for being one of the most potent in Madden NFL 26, featuring glitchy bunch formations, tight doubles, and routes that shred every coverage. Key formations include Gun Bunch Tight End, Bunch X Nasty, Bunch Strong Nasty, Cluster HB Strong, and Trips Tight End. A popular money play is Gun Bunch Tight End-Whip, which involves setting up the running back on a flat route, the slot receiver on a corner route, and the outside receiver on a flat route.

Can Coen Unleash Lawrence?

The arrival of Liam Coen brings a renewed sense of optimism to Jacksonville. Coen’s track record of success, his innovative offensive mind, and his commitment to building a quarterback-friendly system provide a strong foundation for revitalizing Trevor Lawrence’s career and transforming the Jaguars’ offense. While challenges remain, the combination of Coen’s playbook and Lawrence’s talent offers hope that the Jaguars can finally unlock their full potential and compete for a playoff spot in 2025.