The Jacksonville Jaguars are leaving no stone unturned in their ongoing search for a new head coach. They already interviewed several candidates for the job. Some are more appealing than others, and two appear to be separating themselves from the bunch, according to the latest update from an NFL insider.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Media recently talked about the Cowboys and Jags opening. Regarding Jacksonville, he told colleagues Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo that the Jags seem to be setting their sights on Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson, coordinators for the Detroit Lions.
"Let's go to the Jacksonville Jaguars now. They've interviewed eight candidates, including most recently, Brian Flores interviewed with them," Rapoport said. "I know Todd Monken recently interviewed with them. A couple of names to watch, though, I would say Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson, both considered to be very high up as far as where the Jaguars go and what they like."
Rapoport continued, "Usually, it's a big, expansive list for Jacksonville. Guys, this time, it is not much more targeted still several top candidates for which should be a really really attractive job."
The Jaguars have been linked to Ben Johnson throughout this hiring cycle. In fact, Hays Carlyon of 1010 XL says that Jacksonville is his favorite landing spot. However, the Las Vegas Raiders and the Chicago Bears are also making a run for him, so there's no guarantee he'll end up in Duval.
On the other hand, the Jags' interest in Glenn is understandable even though it looks like he's the favorite to fill the New York Jets' vacancy. Similarly, the New Orleans Saints have shown interest in him, and it's easy to see why.
Glenn's approach to coaching routinely helps him get the most out of his players. Moreover, he's put together a stout unit in Detroit even though they've dealt with several injuries. Below is the full clip of Rapoport with the latest.
From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork: Taking a look at where the #Cowboys and #Jaguars are in their coaching searches. pic.twitter.com/zxuPsAsoQo
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 18, 2025
Aaron Glenn or Ben Johnson would be intriguing choices for the Jaguars job
There have been a handful of twists in the Jaguars' current search for a head coach. While Ben Johnson appears to be the front-runner, Robert Saleh also appears to have a favorable chance of getting the job because he's well-liked in the organization. Liam Coen has also been mentioned as someone who could fill the vacancy. That said, this is a fluid situation, and Ian Rappoport's latest report is proof of it.
Aaron Glenn has earned rave reviews during the hiring cycle and even Jaguars legend Fred Taylor would like to see him become the next head coach in Jacksonville. Then again, there hasn't been nearly as much buzz about him getting the gig as either Johnson or Saleh. However, things could quickly take a turn, and he could suddenly become the favorite.
Similarly, there's a chance either the Chicago Bears or the Las Vegas Raiders end up luring Johnson away. If that's the case, the Jaguars will have plan B and C ready. However, there's also a chance either Saleh or Glenn (or someone else) becomes the favorite by merit.
The bottom line is that there will be a few more twists before the Jaguars conclude their coaching search. For the time being, it looks like Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson are in the front seat.