Doug Pederson explains why Jaguars staying put despite Hurricane Ian

Residents of South Florida are taking safety precautions and preparing for Hurricane Ian to hit the southwestern coast. But the Jacksonville Jaguars will remain in the area and head coach Doug Pederson explained why when he met with the local media Wednesday.

“The families, if we leave the families, we’re still here kind of fending for themselves”, Pederson said. “And we got as husbands and dads and we want to make sure that they’re well taken care of and the organization can help take care of the families and then monitoring the storm and seeing where the impacts are gonna be”.

“I would say if it was more a direct hit, and things were going to be a little bit worse, we’d probably consider leaving but I think things are other than some wind and some rain, I think Friday, we’re gonna be okay and just stay here”, Pederson said.

Earlier this week, Pederson told the media they would be monitoring the situation and would be open to leaving if necessary but says that things are “a little more favorable” now, which is why they’re staying. On the other hand, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had to relocate to South Florida and are holding practices at the Miami Dolphins training facility in preparation for their Week 4 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. Here’s Pederson’s whole exchange with the media.

 The Jaguars are focusing on their Week 4 matchup vs. the Eagles

Doug Pederson is aware of the impact a natural disaster can have on people’s lives, having been on the Dolphins’ practice squad when Hurricane Andrew struck Florida in 1992. But he says the Jaguars are still trying to maintain their focus and concentration.

“We’ve got people in place to help the players and the coaches and their families and let’s stay on tasks, game plan tomorrow and then Friday, and if we have to adjust, we just. That’s just part of your emotions”, Pederson said.

The Jags are climbing up power rankings and getting plenty of exposure after beating the Indianapolis Colts and Los Angeles Chargers in consecutive weeks. However, they’re a 6.5-point underdog ahead of their Week 4 matchup and they can’t let outside factors prepare their preparation.

Based on his comments, it looks like Pederson isn’t letting Hurricane Ian become a distraction and is taking the necessary steps to ensure Jacksonville is prepared to take on Philly Sunday.