Someone might want to direct ESPN's graphics department about the widely anticipated coaching changes expected to occur in the AFC South rather than the NFC.
ESPN's Adam Schefter was discussing several coaches heading into the final regular season on “Sunday NFL Countdown” this week when he mentioned Jaguars coach who is expected to be fired after a disastrous 2024 season. , the topic turned to Doug Pederson.
Schefter has said Jacksonville is likely to move him, but the banner behind him shows a photo of Pederson in Jaguars gear below the Panthers logo, suggesting that's not the case. I was doing it.
Carolina coach Dave Canales will end his rookie season in Week 18 against Atlanta.
Despite a shaky start to the year with quarterback Bryce Young, last year's No. 1 overall pick, on the bench, the Panthers have shown promise going forward, with Canales likely returning in 2025. .
If the Panthers beat the Falcons on Sunday, Carolina could finish the season at 5-12, an improvement from last year's 2-15 record.
However, this season, Pederson's third year as head coach, gears shifted in Jacksonville.
The Jaguars opened the season 0-4 and earned their first win in October with a narrow 37-34 win over the Colts.
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence was placed on injured reserve in December after sustaining a concussion after taking a hard hit from Texans linebacker Azeez Al Shaair, and was subsequently suspended for three games.
Lawrence, the Jaguars' No. 1 overall pick in 2021, later underwent surgery to repair an AC sprain in his left shoulder, paving the way for backup Mac Jones to start.
The Jaguars enter Sunday's game against the Colts with a 4-12 record.
Pederson, the Eagles' Super Bowl-winning coach, spoke Friday about how challenging this season has been.
“It was tough to stay focused and motivated and be competitive every week and still give ourselves a chance to win games.” he saidESPN reported.
Pederson, 56, also knew this could be his last go-around.
“If this was the last time, I'd look back and say, 'That was a great run.'” You had a chance to do a lot of great things. You had a chance to win the Super Bowl. You've coached some great players. You've been playing in this league for a long time,' he said.
Pederson's regular season coaching record is 64-65-1.
