The NFL’s coaching carousel has been spinning at full speed this season, shaking up the sidelines across several cities, including Jacksonville. The Jaguars have welcomed Liam Coen, the former offensive coordinator from the Buccaneers, into the fold as their new head coach. Coen, energized by this fresh opportunity, is diligently assembling his coaching team in Jacksonville. There’s chatter that his staff could soon feature a familiar name to NFL fans – Ron Rivera.
Reports are swirling that Coen and the Jaguars have extended an invitation for an interview with Rivera over the weekend for a role that’s yet to be revealed. John Shipley of Jaguars on SI noted the possibility of Rivera stepping in as a senior assistant seems logical. With Coen at the helm as a rookie head coach and Anthony Campanile stepping up as a first-year defensive coordinator, the wisdom and seasoning Rivera offers could provide a steadying hand.
Rivera, whose NFL resume includes leading roles like his recent four-season stint with the Commanders from 2020 to 2023, took a breather from the gridiron last year to dip his toes into broadcasting. However, his experience coaching the Panthers from 2011 to 2019 is etched in memory, highlighted by guiding Carolina to Super Bowl 50.
His name has been in the mix for several coaching vacancies this season. He was seen exploring opportunities in Chicago, where he once played, and with the New York Jets, underscoring the enduring regard for his coaching acumen.
Liam Coen’s journey to the Jaguars’ head coaching gig was anything but smooth. After a rigorous interview process, which saw him briefly return to Tampa Bay with a lucrative offer, Coen ultimately found his way to Jacksonville. This came after a clandestine meeting with Jaguars’ owner Shahid Khan followed the firing of former general manager Trent Baalke. Now in the driver’s seat, Coen is crafting his vision for the team and potentially eyeing seasoned hands like Rivera to steer them toward success.
