It’s hard to identify a single reason for the Jacksonville Jaguars’ disappointing season, but one aspect is drawing significant criticism.
Ryan Nielsen took over as defensive coordinator, replacing Mike Caldwell, and was highly regarded for his potential to make an immediate impact on the defense. However, the Jaguars’ defense has rarely delivered, putting both the 45-year-old coordinator and head coach Doug Pederson at serious risk of being dismissed before the season ends.
The Jaguars defensive flaws
Since the start of the season, Jacksonville’s defense has struggled across nearly every category, seldom stepping up when it matters most.
One of the most surprising issues has been their lackluster performance on the defensive front, especially given Ryan Nielsen’s aggressive philosophy emphasizing blitzes and pressure. Through 11 games, the Jaguars rank 25th in team sacks with just 21—a disappointing output. For context, Nielsen’s former team, the Atlanta Falcons, sits last in the league with only 10 sacks.
But the Jaguars’ problems go far beyond their pass rush. The defense ranks fourth-worst in turnover differential (-8), managing just five interceptions and three recovered fumbles all season. They’ve surrendered a league-high 413.7 yards per game and allowed the most touchdowns (37), including a disastrous performance in Week 11 against the Chicago Bears.
The Jaguars also rank near the bottom in other key metrics, sitting 31st in passing yards allowed per game (278.3) and 26th in rush defense, giving up an average of 135.5 yards on the ground.
All signs point to Nielsen’s tenure ending soon, potentially making him the latest in a string of defensive coordinators—the fifth since 2020. As for the bigger picture, the Jaguars will likely need to reevaluate the entire coaching staff, starting with Doug Pederson. Here are four potential candidates to help rebuild the defense and the team.
Jesse Minter- Los Angeles Chargers
In his first season with the Los Angeles Rams, Jesse Minter has transformed the Chargers’ defense into one of the league’s most efficient units, ranking near the top in EPA per play.
Under Minter’s guidance, Jim Harbaugh’s squad has climbed to sixth in the league in sacks (34) while holding opponents to just 317.1 yards per game—a significant improvement from the 362.9 yards allowed in 2023.
Since stepping into the role of defensive coordinator, Minter has helped the Rams’ defense achieve a level of cohesion reminiscent of their best days under Brandon Staley. His success builds on an impressive resume, including designing some of the most effective schemes in college football while at the University of Michigan.
Minter’s track record positions him as a strong candidate for future head coaching opportunities. While Harbaugh may try to retain his defensive mastermind, the Jaguars would benefit greatly from pursuing Minter. Offering him a lucrative deal could prove to be a wise, long-term investment for a team in need of defensive stability.
Vance Joseph- Denver Broncos
While Vance Joseph’s track record as an NFL head coach may leave much to be desired, his success as a defensive coordinator with Denver has been nothing short of outstanding.
Joseph has transformed a defense that ranked 23rd in EPA last season into one of the league’s premier units. His group currently leads the NFL in sacks with 39 and allows the third-fewest yards per game at 289.4. Denver’s defense also ranks in the top 10 across multiple categories, including passing, rushing, and scoring defense.
Joseph’s ability to elevate a struggling unit makes him an ideal candidate for the Jaguars, who need improvement at every level of their defense. Bringing in a proven leader like Joseph could be exactly what Jacksonville needs to turn things around.
Aaron Glenn- Detroit Lions
While much of the buzz around the Detroit Lions’ coaching staff has centered on Ben Johnson, defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn deserves just as much recognition for his impact on the team.
Under Glenn’s leadership, defensive end Aidan Hutchinson has developed into one of the league’s elite pass rushers, excelling as both a tackler and an all-around force on the defensive line.
One glaring issue for the Jaguars’ 2024 defense has been their inability to force game-changing turnovers—an area where Glenn’s Lions have thrived. Detroit ranks second in the NFL with 14 interceptions and is tied for third in turnover differential (+9) alongside the Chicago Bears.
What’s remarkable about Detroit’s defense is its balance. While no individual player is the best at their position, the unit is strong across the board. Safety Kerby Joseph and defensive back Brian Branch are among the highest-rated players at their positions, while Jack Campbell has provided stability to the linebacking corps.
Like Johnson, Glenn is expected to be a top candidate for coaching opportunities this offseason. For a team like Jacksonville, in desperate need of a defensive overhaul, Glenn could be the perfect choice to turn things around.
Brian Flores- Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have kept the pressure on Detroit in the NFC North all season, trailing by just a single game—and their defense deserves much of the credit for keeping them in the hunt.
Despite doubts about the talent across their roster, Minnesota has emerged as one of the league’s best defenses in passer rating allowed and EPA per play. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores has done an exceptional job unlocking the potential of this unit, transforming it into a group with Pro Bowl-level performers.
Jonathan Greenard, for instance, is having a career year in purple, with over 50 pressures that have helped fans move on from Danielle Hunter. Blake Cashman has seamlessly adapted to his role at linebacker, and Josh Metellus has been a standout, combining elite tackling with lockdown coverage skills.
While Flores might not be in the running for head coaching opportunities due to his 24-25 record with the Miami Dolphins, he’s established himself as one of the NFL’s top coordinators. His success in Minnesota and previous stints make him a strong candidate for another head coaching shot in the near future, but for now, his defensive expertise is turning heads across the league.
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