Jaguars

Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson, who is likely facing scrutiny at the end of the season, asserts that he hasn’t lost the locker room and that players remain committed.

“I believe the consistency, the continuity, and being in it together—understanding how each other thinks and operates, plus the communication level—are all encouraging factors in the direction we’re heading,” said Pederson, as reported by ESPN. “It would be a different story if we saw players giving up a month ago. That’s when you hear about coaches losing their locker room. But that’s not the case here; it was clear yesterday by how hard the guys fought until the end, the joy in the locker room, and the camaraderie—high fives and hugs. That’s not a team that’s quitting; that’s a team working to dig themselves out of a hole.”

Jaguars outside linebacker Travon Walker echoed this sentiment, expressing his belief that the team is committed to finishing the season strong.

“We come to win, and that’s our goal,” Walker stated. “We’re sticking together as a unified unit, regardless of the circumstances.”

Currently, Jacksonville holds a 3-9 record in one-score games this season. Pederson acknowledged that investigating why the team struggles in close games will be a priority this offseason, should he remain in his position.

“We need to identify the reasons behind our struggles in one-score games,” Pederson remarked. “If it’s due to decisions I make, I have to improve my decision-making to lead our team to victory. Likewise, if it’s a player’s responsibility, he must execute to help the team win. We must evaluate all of this comprehensively. I firmly believe these patterns will turn around once our players grasp what winning requires, leading to greater consistency over the years. Ultimately, this starts with me as the leader, and that’s my message to the team.”

• SI.com’s Albert Breer indicates that “a clean sweep is coming” regarding Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke, contrary to earlier beliefs that Baalke might stay.
• Breer elaborates that despite rumors about a midseason firing, owner Shad Khan typically takes a measured approach. He also notes Baalke’s past conflicts with the coaching staff, suggesting a total overhaul would benefit a new coach.
• Breer further adds that Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is considered a strong fit for Jacksonville.

Jets

• SI.com’s Albert Breer believes the Jets have a unique advantage in their upcoming coaching changes, as they can create a clean slate by hiring a general manager and head coach simultaneously.
• Breer notes that Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, a former player for the Jets, is a plausible candidate, although competition is expected for his services this offseason.

Patriots

• When asked if the Patriots’ ownership has confirmed his return next season, head coach Jerod Mayo responded, “I’m always in constant communication with ownership and feel we’re still on the same page.” (Chad Graff)
• Mayo also had discussions with defensive end Keion White following some recent comments made by the second-year player, stating they are aligned. (Mike Giardi)
• Regarding quarterback Drake Maye, Mayo indicated that player health will be a factor in their Week 18 decision: “Right now, everything is under consideration.” (Graff)
• Mayo further confirmed, “If the guys are healthy, they are expected to be ready to go out there and play.” (Giardi)

Raiders

• SI.com’s Albert Breer notes that a change involving Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce is “absolutely in play” despite the team’s recent success.
• Breer reports that owner Mark Davis will consider the opinions of minority owner Tom Brady regarding Pierce, and believes former Titans head coach Mike Vrabel would be a leading candidate should they choose to move on.