JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — It has taken Jaguars General Manager Trent Baalke over two weeks since the end of the season to finally address the media and Jaguars nation.
When he did, he made sure to emphasize his confidence in the new defensive coordinator, Ryan Nielsen, while also hinting at the future of linebacker Josh Allen.
Nielsen made an immediate impact in his sole season with the Atlanta Falcons, contributing to improvements in almost every defensive category. Baalke's confidence in hiring him was not only based on Nielsen's on-field performance but also on their successful interview.
"The thing that's neat is the preparation that Ryan had put into getting ready for the interview, knowing our roster the way he did, talking through how he sees those pieces being utilized in his defense. That was impressive, and really, the fact that no matter who you talk to, they had nothing but positive things to say about him. Then you bring him in, and everything that you heard comes to life," Baalke said.
Nielsen will replace Mike Caldwell, who spent just two seasons with the Jags.
Keeping the focus on the defense, Baalke addressed the team's biggest free agent on that side, Josh Allen. The Jaguars could have re-signed Allen to a long-term deal last offseason but chose to wait.
Now, with Allen coming off his best season yet, it might cost the Jaguars a bit more.
"Josh Allen is going to be a Jaguar next year. I know Josh wants to be here; I know we want him here. Can we come to a number that works for everybody? That's the key, and I respect that. We just got to come together, sit down at the table, and work things out," said Baalke.
The Jaguars' GM mentioned that there are several missing pieces on the roster heading into the offseason but expressed confidence in the core of the team. He also indicated that fans should anticipate a different-looking team come April.