Unlocking Lawrence: How Liam Coen Can Finally Unleash Trevor’s Potential in 2025

The Jacksonville Jaguars are betting big on Liam Coen to revitalize their offense and, more importantly, unlock the full potential of quarterback Trevor Lawrence. After a disappointing 4-13 season in 2024, which saw Doug Pederson relieved of his duties, the Jaguars are looking for a fresh start. Coen, hired as the head coach on January 24, 2025, arrives with a reputation for offensive innovation and a track record of success with quarterbacks. Can he be the key to turning Lawrence into the franchise cornerstone Jacksonville envisioned when they selected him first overall in the 2021 NFL Draft?

Lawrence’s Journey So Far

Trevor Lawrence’s career in Jacksonville has been a rollercoaster. Hailed as a generational talent coming out of Clemson, his transition to the NFL has been uneven. While he’s shown flashes of brilliance, consistency has been elusive. In 2024, Lawrence had a passer rating of 85.2 with 2,045 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions in 10 games. While these numbers aren’t terrible, they also don’t reflect the potential that Lawrence possesses.

His career stats as of 2024 show a completion percentage of 63.3%, 13,815 passing yards, 69 touchdowns, and 46 interceptions. While he led the Jaguars to their first division title and playoff win since 2017 in 2022, the team has struggled to maintain that level of success. In 2024, the Jaguars finished 3rd in the AFC South, missing the playoffs.

Liam Coen’s Offensive Philosophy

Liam Coen’s coaching journey has taken him through various levels of football, including stints with the Los Angeles Rams and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Most recently, in 2024 with the Buccaneers, Coen led an offense that ranked in the top five in the NFL in yards per game (399.6), scoring (29.5), passing yards per game (250.4), and rushing yards per game (149.2). This balanced attack showcases Coen’s ability to adapt his scheme to the strengths of his players.

Coen’s offensive philosophy emphasizes a strong running game and a commitment to building a tough offensive line. He stated at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine that improving the run game and building strong lines on both sides of the ball is a fundamental priority. “That’s a mentality. That’s personnel. That’s scheme. That’s technique. That’s fundamentals. That’s attitude. That’s something we need to instill.”

The Key to Unlocking Lawrence

So, how can Liam Coen unlock Trevor Lawrence’s potential? Here are a few key areas to focus on:

Establishing a Consistent Running Game: A reliable running game takes pressure off the quarterback and opens up opportunities in the passing game. In 2024, the Jaguars struggled to run the ball effectively, ranking 29th in yards before contact per carry. Coen’s emphasis on a strong running game could be just what the Jaguars’ offense needs.
Improving the Offensive Line: A leaky offensive line can derail even the most talented quarterback. Lawrence has often been under pressure, which has affected his accuracy and decision-making. The Jaguars have already taken steps to address this issue, acquiring offensive linemen like Robert Hainsey and Patrick Mekari in free agency. These additions should bring physicality and depth to the line.
Simplifying the Passing Game: Lawrence has, at times, looked overwhelmed by complex reads and progressions. Coen needs to simplify the passing game, giving Lawrence clear and concise options. This will allow him to play faster and more decisively.
Utilizing Play-Action: Play-action passing can be a potent weapon when paired with a strong running game. It forces defenses to respect the run, creating opportunities for Lawrence to make big plays downfield.
Developing a Strong Connection with Receivers: Lawrence needs to develop a strong rapport with his receivers. Building trust and chemistry will lead to better timing and execution. Brian Thomas Jr. is a promising young receiver, but the Jaguars need to add more talent to the receiving corps.

The 2025 NFL Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft presents an opportunity for the Jaguars to add more offensive talent. With the fifth overall pick, they could target a top wide receiver or offensive lineman. Coach Coen should want to take offensive talent in the early rounds of the draft in April. The Jaguars have the most selections in this year’s draft and they need to use that to their advantage.

Building a Winning Culture

Beyond Xs and Os, Liam Coen needs to instill a winning culture in Jacksonville. The Jaguars have struggled with consistency and discipline in recent years. Coen needs to create an environment where players are held accountable and are motivated to perform at their best.

The Road Ahead

The 2025 season will be a crucial one for Trevor Lawrence and the Jacksonville Jaguars. With Liam Coen at the helm, there’s reason for optimism. If Coen can implement his offensive philosophy, improve the offensive line, and simplify the passing game, he may be the coach to finally unlock Lawrence’s full potential. The Jaguars have invested heavily in Lawrence, and it’s time for that investment to pay off.