Jaguars' Coen Balances Veteran vs. Young QB Debate

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 3:50 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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The Quarterback Conundrum: Jaguars' Liam Coen Navigates the Generational Divide

Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Liam Coen recently delved into a football debate as old as the game itself: the merits of veteran quarterbacks versus the potential of younger signal-callers. Speaking candidly, Coen offered a refreshingly balanced perspective, acknowledging the distinct advantages and inevitable drawbacks of both experienced pros and up-and-coming stars. His insights, born from coaching both established names like Matthew Stafford and developing talent like Trevor Lawrence, highlight the complex dynamics at play in the modern NFL.

The conversation initially surfaced during a discussion about Lawrence's ongoing development as he enters his crucial fourth season. While acknowledging the challenges Lawrence has faced, Coen stressed the importance of continuous learning and refinement - a process inherent in all quarterbacks, regardless of experience. However, it prompted a broader reflection on the broader quarterback landscape and the shifting priorities in player evaluation and development.

Coen's praise for veteran quarterbacks centered around their accumulated knowledge and resilience. "There's a lot of value in those guys who have been around a while," he stated. "They've seen it all, they've been through it all. They've made mistakes, they've corrected them. They've had success. They've had failures. They know what it takes to get it done." This 'been there, done that' quality is invaluable, particularly in high-pressure situations. A seasoned quarterback can often diagnose defenses pre-snap, make audibles at the line of scrimmage, and manage the game with a calmness that comes from years of experience. They possess an ingrained understanding of leverage, timing, and opposing tendencies - knowledge that can't be taught, only earned through repetition and adversity.

However, Coen was equally enthusiastic about the potential of younger quarterbacks. He described them as "sponges," eager to absorb coaching and constantly striving for improvement. "They're coming in every day eager to get better. They're receptive to coaching. You don't know what they're going to become, and that's exciting." This open-mindedness and willingness to learn is a powerful asset. Young quarterbacks are often unburdened by bad habits and are more adaptable to new offensive schemes and coaching philosophies. The NFL has seen a recent influx of young, dynamic quarterbacks - Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, and now potentially Lawrence - who are redefining the position with their athleticism, arm talent, and improvisational skills.

The contrasting approaches to quarterback development also contribute to the debate. Veteran quarterbacks often require a coaching staff to adapt to their established style and preferences. The emphasis is on maximizing their existing strengths and minimizing their weaknesses. Conversely, young quarterbacks are often molded and sculpted by the coaching staff, allowing for a more comprehensive and fundamental rebuild. This presents both opportunities and risks. A skilled coaching staff can unlock a young quarterback's full potential, while a mismanaged development process can stifle growth and hinder their career trajectory.

Coen's own experience exemplifies this dynamic. His time with Matthew Stafford in Los Angeles showcased the benefits of leveraging a veteran's experience to achieve immediate success, culminating in a Super Bowl victory. Now, in Jacksonville, he's focused on nurturing Lawrence's talent and guiding him through the complexities of the NFL. This requires patience, a tailored approach, and a willingness to embrace the learning curve. The pressure on Lawrence is particularly acute given the Jaguars' investment in him as the first overall pick in the 2021 draft.

Looking ahead, the trend towards younger quarterbacks appears likely to continue. The NFL is becoming increasingly focused on athleticism, mobility, and the ability to extend plays - qualities often found in younger players. However, the value of veteran leadership and experience shouldn't be underestimated. In a league defined by constant change and intense competition, a steady hand at the quarterback position can be a significant advantage. Ultimately, the ideal scenario for any team is to find a quarterback who embodies the best qualities of both worlds: the wisdom of a veteran and the potential of a rising star. The challenge for coaches like Liam Coen lies in identifying and developing that player, and maximizing their potential regardless of age.