Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan continues to express strong support for head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are struggling with a 1-4 record at the start of the 2024 season. However, owner Shad Khan emphasized in an exclusive interview with the Times-Union that the team’s finish is what truly matters.
Khan reflected on the last two seasons for context. In 2022, the Jaguars began 2-6 but finished strong at 9-8, becoming AFC South Champions. In contrast, the 2023 season saw them start 8-3 but end with a disappointing 9-8 and miss the playoffs.
“Every game is competitive in the NFL, and while a loss is a loss, it’s about how you lose,” Khan stated. He acknowledged disappointment in their early losses but noted they had chances to win those games.
Regarding the team’s 47-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills, Khan called it “embarrassing” but reiterated his support for head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke. He praised their efforts and asked how they can improve results.
This season, the Jaguars’ losses have been similar, with missed opportunities in late-game situations against the Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, and Houston Texans. Concerns have arisen about the direction of the team under Pederson and Baalke, especially after Khan’s earlier assertion that “winning now is the expectation” and that the current roster is the best in franchise history.
Despite the disappointing outcomes, Khan remains optimistic. “No, not at all,” he said when asked if he’d changed his view since the summer. He continues to believe in the players and coaching staff, acknowledging the disappointment but emphasizing the team’s growth and potential.
The Jaguars have achieved back-to-back winning seasons for the first time under Khan, who sees his investments in the team as a sign they’re ready to compete consistently. “I expect us to be competitive and winning every year,” he said, reinforcing the culture of winning he wants to instill.
Overall, Khan feels the Jaguars are moving in a positive direction. “We have strong support from our fans, and I think we’re in a good place,” he concluded.
