Urban Meyer suggests Jaguars hire ascending coordinator to replace Doug pederson

It looks like Urban Meyer doesn't seem to hold an ill will toward the Jacksonville Jaguars even though they kicked him to the curve. Granted, he was no victim and instead was responsible for one of the most taxing seasons in team history. But in a show of good faith, the embattled head coach told his former team who would be the best candidate to replace the man who took his job, Doug Pederson.

Meyer made an online appearance and suggested Shad Khan hire Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to replace Pederson, pointing out that the Jags have a young quarterback in Trevor Lawrence and must build around him.

"All right, Mr. Shan: You invest a lot into this franchise. Now, it's time to make the right decision, to get a return," Meyer said. "The kid you've got down there is a gunslinger, build it around him. Don't go for the old guard, go for the young and fresh hire, Ben [Johnson], not Bill [Belichick]."

Meyer continued. "Get him a manager like Ray [Agnew], or Ian [Cunningham], and bring in experienced events like Tony [Boselli] or Fred [Taylor] to offer sound advice and help shape the culture. If you don't take my word for it, listen to our supporters. Heck, even Pete or McAfee, and a secretary with a mullet would agree."

For context, the gunslinger Meyer is referring to is Trevor Lawrence. Ray Agnew and Ian Cunningham and executives for the Lions and Chicago Bears, respectively. Either one could be Trent Baalke's successor. And of course, the former Jaguars head coach is recommending the organization bring team legends Tony Boselli and Fred Taylor in some kind of consulting role.

And for the sake of clarity, that seems to be a paid Cameo. You choose a celebrity, and for a fee, they'll read whatever message you give them. This isn't to say that the video isn't legit, just that this may not be how Meyer truly feels. After all, he comes across as robotic and appears to be reading from a script, hence the Cameo possibility.

Still, it was a bit surprising to see Meyer speak in a positive tone about the Jaguars, even if he was paid for it, and there's currently no evidence he did. Back in 2021, he was hired to turn the franchise around but instead managed to sink it even lower. During his brief stint, he berated players and members of his own handpicked staff.

Similarly, Meyer earned scorn from around the league after not flying back with the Jaguars after a game in Cincinnati because he wanted to "spend time with his grandchildren." In reality, he went to a nightclub and was caught on video dancing improperly with a woman who wasn't his wife Shelley.

After a series an controversies, the Jaguars dismissed Meyer, and he's held a series of broadcasting jobs ever since. Here's the video where he talks about Johnson being the perfect replacement for Pederson, via Twitter user UCF Jaguar. You be the judge:

Why Ben Johnson is the right pick for the Jaguars to replace Doug Pederson

Even if it were a paid message, it does make sense. Just recently, Aaron Schatz of FTN Fantasy told the B&T that the Jacksonville Jaguars should steer clear from retreads, and Bill Belichick, a name that has routinely been floated to replace Doug Pederson, fits the bill.

On the other hand, Ben Johnson is an ascending coordinator in league circles. He was one of the hottest candidates in the last hiring cycle and came close to becoming the head coach for the Washington Commanders. However, he backed down at the 11th hour and returned to the Lions.

Many people, including head coach Dan Campbell, are responsible for getting the Lions in the right direction and potential contention for the Super Bowl after decades of ineptitude. But there's no doubt Johnson has played a massive role in getting the most out of players such as wide receiver Amon Ra St. Brown, tight end Sam Laporta, offensive tackle Penei Sewell, and quarterback Jared Goff, who's enjoying a career revival in Motor City.

Heck, the Jags witnessed firsthand just how good Johnson and his offense are. Back in Week 11, Detroit scored 52 points on them, and if they do dismiss Doug Pederson — signs are pointing in that direction — Jacksonville will be one of the most intriguing destinations for head coaching candidates.

The bottom line is that even if Urban Meyer hadn't said it, there's no doubt Ben Johnson will be a hot commodity in the next hiring cycle, and the Jacksonville Jaguars must put him at the top of their wish list.

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