Jaguars Begin Defensive Coordinator Search Under Liam Coen

The Jacksonville Jaguars have officially kicked off their search for a defensive coordinator under newly hired head coach Liam Coen. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Jaguars are interviewing Minnesota Vikings defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator Daronte Jones for the position on Monday.

Jones is the first publicly known candidate for either of the Jaguars’ coordinator roles since Coen was announced as the franchise’s eighth head coach last Friday. This pivotal hire is expected to shape the defensive identity of a team aiming to rebound under its new leadership.

Jones’ Coaching Background

Daronte Jones brings a wealth of experience to the table. After initially joining the Vikings in 2022 for a second stint, Jones oversaw one of the most improved secondaries in the NFL. Under his guidance, Minnesota’s defense jumped from 31st in overall rankings in 2022 to 16th in 2023. The Vikings also led the league with 21 forced turnovers, with defensive backs accounting for 14 of them.

Jones’ resume also includes a season as LSU’s defensive coordinator in 2021 and previous NFL roles with the Miami Dolphins (assistant defensive backs coach, 2016-17) and Cincinnati Bengals (secondary/cornerbacks coach, 2018-19). His track record of developing defensive backs and improving team performance has made him a standout candidate on Brian Flores’ defensive staff.

In addition to the Jaguars, Jones recently interviewed with the Chicago Bears, further solidifying his reputation as a future NFL defensive coordinator.

Jaguars’ Coordinator Options

As Coen takes the reins in Jacksonville, his defensive coordinator hire will be a crucial decision. While Coen is expected to call plays for the offense, the defensive coordinator will play a significant role in shaping the Jaguars’ identity on the other side of the ball.

The team is also rumored to be considering Las Vegas Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, who impressed with two interviews during the Jaguars’ head coaching search. However, no official confirmation has been made regarding his potential involvement in Coen’s staff.

Coen’s Vision for the Jaguars

In his introductory statement as head coach, Coen emphasized his commitment to building a top-tier coaching staff and establishing a strong football identity for the Jaguars.

“As head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars, I will hire a first-class coaching staff, establish a distinctive and effective brand of football on both sides of the ball, and our players will live for the black and teal. Shad [Khan] and Jaguars fans should expect nothing less, and that’s what we plan to deliver and more,” Coen said.

The defensive coordinator role will be critical to realizing that vision, and with candidates like Jones in the mix, the Jaguars are exploring all avenues to secure the right fit for the job.

As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Jacksonville as they shape their coaching staff under Coen’s leadership, aiming to turn the tide and build a contender in the AFC.