- Owner Shad Khan pivots as team rebuilds after disappointing season
- Ethan Waugh named interim GM as Jaguars restart head coach search
The Jacksonville Jaguars have parted ways with General Manager Trent Baalke following weeks of speculation about his future. Team owner Shad Khan announced the decision in a statement, signaling a new direction for the struggling franchise after a disappointing 4-13 season.
“Following several discussions with Trent Baalke this week, we both arrived at the conclusion that it is in our mutual best interests to respectfully separate, effective immediately,” Khan said. “Trent leaves us with my deepest appreciation for his efforts over the past five seasons.”
Baalke, who joined the Jaguars in 2019 as director of player personnel and became GM in 2021, oversaw a turbulent period for the franchise. While the team made one playoff appearance during his tenure, they also endured two seasons with fewer than five wins, leaving fans and analysts questioning the team’s leadership.
Baalke’s presence had reportedly been a sticking point for potential head coaching candidates, including Ben Johnson and Liam Coen, who declined the Jaguars’ job. With head coach Doug Pederson already dismissed on Black Monday, Khan’s decision to replace Baalke indicates a full-scale reset for the team.
New Leadership on the Horizon
Ethan Waugh, the team’s assistant general manager since 2022, will serve as interim GM while the Jaguars search for a permanent replacement. Waugh, who worked alongside Baalke during their time with the San Francisco 49ers, brings extensive experience in player personnel and will assist in identifying the team’s next head coach.
Khan has confirmed that hiring a new head coach will take precedence over appointing a permanent GM. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that candidates from teams still in playoff contention could be on Jacksonville’s radar, suggesting a methodical approach to the hiring process. Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and former Jets head coach Robert Saleh are among those already scheduled for interviews.
A Checkered Past and Uncertain Future
Baalke’s NFL career includes a six-year stint as GM of the 49ers, where he clashed with head coach Jim Harbaugh despite the team’s Super Bowl XLVII appearance. His tenure with the Jaguars has drawn scrutiny for inconsistent results and lingering concerns about his management style.
Despite securing long-term commitments from key players like Trevor Lawrence and Walker Little, Baalke failed to steer the team toward sustained success. His departure opens the door for Khan to reshape the franchise’s leadership structure, with both the GM and head coach expected to report directly to him moving forward.
Key Decisions Await
The Jaguars’ offseason is shaping up to be one of critical importance. With a talented young quarterback in Trevor Lawrence and a fan base hungry for a return to relevance, Khan’s next hires will determine the team’s trajectory for years to come.
As the organization reboots its leadership, all eyes will be on how the Jaguars navigate their search for a head coach and general manager. Whether this overhaul will finally deliver the stability and success Jacksonville has long sought remains to be seen.
