Head coach Doug Pederson's fate beyond 2024 is one of the biggest storylines surrounding the Jacksonville Jaguars ahead of the offseason. Although it isn't discussed nearly as much, the organization will also need to make a decision about general manager Trent Baalke, who hasn't been able to build a playoff-caliber roster. Based on a recent report, he could make things easy for the Jags.
Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reports that Baalke could walk away after the season ends pointing out that he would be shocked if he stays based on how his tenure in Jacksonville has unfolded.
"I have heard Baalke could retire after the season. If he doesn’t, and makes it to 2025 as the Jaguars’ GM, with all the above history plus some scouting/coaching infighting having happened in the organization … well, then I think I’d have to tip my cap to him."
Breer argues that Baalke had a case to stay as the general manager of the San Francisco 49ers in the 2010s because they made it to the NFC Championship three times with the roster he built. However, he hasn't had the same kind of success with Jacksonville, which is why he thinks he'll be gone.
Baalke originally joined the Jaguars as their vice president of player personnel in 2020. He was promoted to interim general manager later that year when David Caldwell was dismissed and got the job full-time in 2021.
Since then, Baalke has drafted several franchise building blocks such as cornerback Tyson Campbell, defensive end Travon Walker, and wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. Moreover, he's made sure to reward the team's homegrown talent such as the aforementioned Campbell, left tackle Walker Little, defensive end Josh Hines-Allen and Trevor Lawrence.
On the other hand, Baalke has had a questionable track record in free agency. In fact, he made a big investment in the 2024 class but has barely gotten any return. The general manager signed cornerback Ronald Darby, defensive lineman Arik Armstead, return specialist Devin Duvernay, wide receiver Gabe Davis, and center Mitch Morse. Of the bunch, Morse has been virtually the only one who's had a positive impact, and he hasn't necessarily been impressive.
Granted, Baalke has also brought in difference-makers such as tight end Evan Engram and wide receiver Christian Kirk, but for every hit he's had, he's also made a blunder in free agency. Add the fact that he may not have the best relationship with Doug Pederson and other team executives, and the general manager is on the hot seat.
Moving on from Trent Baalke is a no-brainer for the Jaguars
Albert Breer echoes what Pete Prisco of CBS Sports said earlier this year: Trent Baalke could retire after the season ends, and if that's the case, the Jacksonville Jaguars would immediately get an edge in the next hiring cycle. For starters, they would get rid of the headache of having to deal with him. But more importantly, they would be able to get a general manager who's receptive to working with any potential head coach candidates.
For instance, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has made it clear that he'll only interview for openings where he's on the same page as the general manager. By getting rid of Baalke, the Jaguars would allow him to bring in someone he's comfortable with.
But even if the Jaguars don't go after Johnson, they'll be in a position to hire a general manager who is less confrontational and willing to work in conjunction with his head coach.
The bottom line is that the Jacksonville Jaguars have been underwhelming this season and must clean house next year. If Trent Baalke retires, he'll take one decision off their to-do list.