Jaguars fire Doug Pederson after disappointing 4-13 season, fans react – “It was definitely time to go”

After being utterly disappointed seeing his team record another losing season at 4-13, owner Shad Khan finally decided to fire Doug Pederson.  

Jaguars fire Doug Pederson after disappointing 4-13 season, fans react – “It was definitely time to go”

Doug Pederson (Via SI)

The Jacksonville Jaguars concluded the 2024 season on a disappointing note on Sunday, marking their 18th defeat in the last 23 games. And they officially turned the page for the next season, beginning with the dismissal of head coach Doug Pederson following the disastrous 4-13 campaign. 

Pederson’s dismissal had been anticipated by fans, who lost faith in him after the team suffered its worst loss in franchise history earlier in November. Owner Shad Khan, who had refrained from making any decisions regarding the head coach’s future at that time, announced the firing on Monday, believing it was finally time for change. 

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NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported on Monday that owner Khan was utterly disappointed seeing his team record another losing season, and decided to part ways with Pederson.  

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I had the difficult task this morning of informing Doug Pederson of my intention to hire a new head coach to lead the Jacksonville Jaguars. As much as Doug and I both wish his experience here in Jacksonville would have ended better, I have an obligation first and foremost to serve the best interests of our team and especially our fans, who faithfully support our team and are overdue to be rewarded. In that spirit, the time to summon new leadership is now.

Shad Khan stated

As he bid farewell to Pederson, Khan hoped to bring a winning environment to the team next season. Though they retained General Manager Trent Baalke, the team is yet to announce the interim head coach until they find their next head coach.

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Doug Pederson’s hopeful remarks contrast with Jaguars’ decision to fire him

This sudden yet foreseeable announcement came in contrast to Pederson’s words after the 26-23 loss at the hands of the Indianapolis Colts, where he shared being hopeful about a return next season. However, fans seem to be in full support of this decision by the franchise.

Jaguars former HC Doug Pederson
Jaguars former HC Doug Pederson (Via Sporting News)

One fan wrote, “It was definitely time to go. 18 L’s out of the last 23 with so many one-score games,” while another added, “Well, I imagine it’s for the best.” Here are some of the fan reactions:

Pederson’s stint with the Jaguars started out promising, leading the team to a playoff appearance in his first season and earning quarterback Trevor Lawrence a Pro Bowl selection. However, the last two seasons saw a significant decline in performance, resulting in a record of 22-29 in three years. 

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