The Jacksonville Jaguars football team has announced Doug Pederson’s return, this time as assistant general manager. June 20, 2025, Jacksonville, Florida In a shocking change of events that has shocked the NFL community, former head coach and Super Bowl champion Doug Pederson is rejoining the Jacksonville Jaguars, but not in the capacity that fans might anticipate. A bright new era for the Jaguars on and off the field has begun with the announcement today that Pederson will be returning to the team as **Assistant General Manager**.
The move marks Pederson’s second stint with the Jaguars after serving as their head coach from 2022 to 2024. During his tenure, Pederson helped usher in a culture of professionalism and discipline that had long eluded the franchise. While his time on the sidelines ended after a disappointing 2024 campaign, his influence on the organization clearly left a lasting impression.
### A Surprising but Strategic Appointment
Jaguars General Manager Trent Baalke, who made the announcement at a press conference this morning, called Pederson’s return “a strategic and forward-thinking decision.”
After being the Jaguars’ head coach from 2022 to 2024, Pederson is joining the team for the second time. Pederson assisted in establishing a disciplined and professional culture during his time there that the organization had long lacked. Despite the fact that his 2024 campaign ended in disappointment, his impact on the team was evidently long-lasting. ### An Unexpected but Useful Appointment
Directly reporting to Baalke, Pederson will be heavily involved in roster building, draft preparation, free agency choices, and collaboration with the scouting and analytics departments. Additionally, he will serve as a bridge between the coaching staff and the front office, a role for which he is particularly equipped due to his significant expertise on both sides of the game, according to sources within the club.
### From the Sidelines to the Front Office
After being let go at the end of the 2024 season, Pederson had been relatively quiet publicly. Rumors had linked him to various coaching vacancies across the league, including potential offensive coordinator positions and even head coaching interest from the college ranks. However, today’s announcement came as a complete surprise, even to insiders.
In a written statement released by the team, Pederson expressed excitement and gratitude for the new opportunity:
> “I am honored to return to the Jacksonville Jaguars in a new capacity. While my time as head coach came to an end, my passion for building championship football teams never has. I believe in this organization, the ownership, and the direction we’re heading. I look forward to contributing to a winning culture in every way I can.”
Pederson, who led the Philadelphia Eagles to a Super Bowl victory in 2017, is widely respected for his leadership, calm demeanor, and sharp football IQ. Though his coaching resume is impressive, this new role represents uncharted territory — a rare transition from head coach to executive leadership without a stop in broadcasting or consulting.
### A Culture Move Amid High Expectations
This change comes during a period of transformation for the Jaguars, who recently hired a new head coach, former Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, and have revamped much of their staff. Owner Shad Khan, who has long been criticized for instability at the top of the organization, appears to be focused on continuity and experience this time around.
Khan also released a statement on Pederson’s hiring:
> “Doug Pederson is a man of integrity, vision, and football excellence. His return to our franchise demonstrates our commitment to building a winning culture and sustainable success. I am confident that with Doug working alongside Trent and Coach Glenn, the Jacksonville Jaguars are in the strongest leadership position we’ve had in years.”
The Jaguars finished the 2024 season at 6–11, missing the playoffs for the second straight year after a promising 2022 AFC South title. Critics pointed to inconsistent quarterback play, injuries on defense, and questionable draft results as key reasons for the team’s regression. By bringing Pederson into a front-office role, the organization is signaling a desire to tighten the connection between coaching, scouting, and player development.
### League-Wide Reaction
Across the NFL, the reaction to Pederson’s return to Jacksonville has been largely positive — if a bit surprised.
“Doug knows how to win,” said ESPN analyst and former NFL executive Louis Riddick. “This move shows that Jacksonville understands the importance of institutional knowledge. Doug’s leadership in the building — even if he’s not wearing a headset — is going to have an impact.”
NFL insiders have also speculated that Pederson’s presence in the front office could serve as a stabilizing force and a potential future GM candidate, should Baalke ever move on.
### What’s Next?
Pederson is expected to begin his new role immediately and will be deeply involved in preparations for the 2025 season, including training camp evaluations and long-term roster strategy.
With quarterback Trevor Lawrence entering a critical year and a young core still developing, Pederson’s return brings hope that the franchise can return to the trajectory that had many pundits touting them as a team on the rise just a couple of seasons ago.
For now, Jaguars fans can celebrate the return of a familiar face — one who knows what it takes to build a championship team and who might just be the key to unlocking the full potential of this promising but unfulfilled roster.
—
Stay with us for continued coverage of this developing story and what Doug Pederson’s return means for the Jaguars’ future.
### From the Front Office to the Sidelines Following his dismissal at the conclusion of the 2024 season, Pederson had been largely silent in public. He was said to be connected to a number of coaching openings throughout the league, including possible roles as offensive coordinator and perhaps head coaching interest from collegiate programs. Even insiders were taken aback by today’s statement, though.
Leave a Reply