JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jaguars plan to retain general manager Trent Baalke and allow him to have input on the team’s next coaching hire, according to the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
That’s a big change from what was expected to be a complete overhaul this offseason after owner Shad Khan fired coach Urban Meyer after a 2-11 record and numerous public relations nightmares.
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From @NFLTotalAccess: The #Jaguars head coaching search kicks into gear with GM Trent Baalke to be retained and assist owner Shad Khan. Plus, the status of #49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo is now in doubt with a torn ligament in his throwing thumb. pic.twitter.com/3c8mqmgxKx
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 28, 2021
In a tweet, Rapoport said that Baalke will move on to his third year with the team. He took over for ousted general manager Dave Caldwell halfway through the 2020 season and was elevated to the full GM role this season.
“GM Trent Baalke will be retained and will be involved with owner Shad Khan in the search for a new HC. Baalke will continue to report to Khan and work in sync with the new head coach, who will also have a direct reporting line to Khan,” Rapoport said in a tweet.
Baalke and Meyer’s first draft and free agency class were both below average. Among the draft picks who have had average to above-average seasons are No. 1 overall pick Trevor Lawrence and second-round pick Tyson Campbell.
The free agency class has underwhelmed, too.
If Khan decides to keep Baalke as the GM, will that decision affect what head coaching candidates he can attract?
The Jaguars are said to have an interest in interviewing Tampa Bay offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich, and former NFL head coaches Doug Pederson and Jim Caldwell.