Jaguars' Coen Shares Insights on Quarterback Development

Head coach Liam Coen discusses the challenges young QBs face in their second NFL season.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 10:00am

Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen shared his insights on the development of young NFL quarterbacks, particularly the challenges they face in their second season. Coen emphasized the importance of not overthinking things and simply letting the game 'slow down' and 'just go play fast' as players gain more experience.

Why it matters

Coen's comments provide valuable perspective on the evolution of young quarterbacks in the NFL, a topic of keen interest to fans and analysts alike as they evaluate the progress of high-profile prospects like C.J. Stroud and Bryce Young.

The details

Coen explained that while the game can 'slow down' for quarterbacks in their second year, they also face new challenges as they try to build on their rookie success. He cautioned against overthinking and overanalyzing, urging young QBs to 'go back to square one a little bit' and focus on the fundamentals that got them to the NFL in the first place.

  • Coen shared these insights at the NFL's Owners Meetings in late March 2026.

The players

Liam Coen

The head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars, known for his work developing quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield and Trevor Lawrence.

C.J. Stroud

The quarterback for the Houston Texans, a highly touted prospect entering the NFL.

Bryce Young

The quarterback for the Carolina Panthers, another highly regarded young signal-caller.

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What they’re saying

“I think that the speed of the game I think slows down in year two a little bit. Whereas now you've also seen some guys fall off in year two a little bit, and challenges that come up. Because in year one, I think no matter what, you're just playing. Who cares, dude, just go play.”

— Liam Coen, Head Coach, Jacksonville Jaguars

“Sometimes, [in] year two, you can start tripping on the expectations or what just happened. I've got to redo that, I've got to be better. It's like, dude, just break it back down, go back to square one a little bit, the fundamentals, techniques that got you here, lean into those. Don't overthink. I think a lot of second-year quarterbacks, especially, start overanalyzing a little, and it's like, dude, just go let it rip, cut it loose and play.”

— Liam Coen, Head Coach, Jacksonville Jaguars

What’s next

Coen's insights will likely be closely followed by NFL analysts and fans as they evaluate the progress of young quarterbacks like Stroud and Young in the upcoming season.

The takeaway

Coen's philosophy emphasizes the importance of simplicity and instinct for young quarterbacks, rather than overthinking and overanalyzing their performance. His approach could provide valuable guidance for the next generation of NFL signal-callers.