Jaguars Coach Liam Coen Settles for 'Window Shopping' in Free Agency

Jaguars GM James Gladstone and Coach Coen discuss retaining coordinators, player rehab, and limited free agent moves.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:56pm

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The Jacksonville Jaguars have been quiet in free agency this offseason, with limited salary cap space and a desire to gain future compensatory picks. Coach Liam Coen and GM James Gladstone addressed the team's approach, including retaining their coordinators and the rehabilitation of key players like Travis Hunter and Cole Van Lanen.

Why it matters

The Jaguars' conservative approach in free agency this year contrasts with their more aggressive moves last offseason, as they look to build on their 13-4 season and playoff appearance. Retaining their coaching staff and managing player injuries will be crucial as they aim to remain competitive in the AFC South.

The details

The Jaguars' only free agent signing so far is running back Chris Rodriguez Jr., while several players like Travis Etienne, Devin Lloyd, and Greg Newsome have departed for other teams. Coach Coen acknowledged he was 'impatient' and 'window shopping' during free agency, but GM Gladstone held firm on not overpaying for players. The team was able to retain offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile after they interviewed for head coaching jobs. Coen said this will allow the team to 'start a little bit faster this offseason'. Cornerback/receiver Travis Hunter is 'very well ahead' in his rehab from a season-ending knee injury, while left tackle Cole Van Lanen is also trending positively in his recovery.

  • On March 20, the Jaguars signed Seattle restricted free agent receiver Jake Bobo to a two-year, $5.5 million offer sheet.
  • The Seahawks matched the Jaguars' offer sheet for Bobo three days later on March 23.

The players

Liam Coen

The head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars, who discussed the team's approach to free agency and retaining key players.

James Gladstone

The general manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars, who worked with Coach Coen on the team's free agent strategy and roster decisions.

Travis Hunter

A cornerback and receiver for the Jacksonville Jaguars who is recovering from a season-ending knee injury.

Cole Van Lanen

The starting left tackle for the Jacksonville Jaguars who is recovering from a right knee injury sustained at the end of the season.

Grant Udinski

The offensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars, who was retained after interviewing for head coaching jobs.

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What they’re saying

“Impatient, let's call it that for me. James has obviously been, 'Nah dude,' but I'm (like), 'I'm window shopping, pal.'”

— Liam Coen, Head Coach

“The whole goal last year was to raise the floor and get as many guys that care about and love football that we can. Knowing that wasn't going to be the case (this year) going in, I was able to taper my expectations a little bit. You're going to pay premiums for players (in free agency) and we just weren't really in a place to want to do that.”

— Liam Coen, Head Coach

What’s next

The Jaguars will continue to monitor the rehabilitation progress of Travis Hunter and Cole Van Lanen as they prepare for the upcoming season. The team will also look to add depth through the draft and any remaining free agent signings.

The takeaway

The Jaguars' measured approach in free agency this offseason, focused on retaining key players and managing the salary cap, reflects a team that is trying to build sustainable success rather than make splashy moves. Their ability to maintain continuity on the coaching staff and get injured players healthy will be crucial as they look to build on last season's 13-4 record.