Liam Coen’s latest coaching decision has fans buzzing—and not in a good way. After seemingly committing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as their offensive coordinator, Coen abruptly announced his departure to take the head coaching job with the Jacksonville Jaguars. This sudden move has led to sharp criticism from Buccaneers fans, with Kentucky football fans quick to point out the eerie similarities to his first exit from Lexington.
Déjà Vu for Kentucky Fans
Back in 2022, Coen left Kentucky football after just one season as offensive coordinator to rejoin the Los Angeles Rams. His departure, following a strong season that saw the Wildcats average 32.3 points and 425.1 yards per game, left fans frustrated as the team had to scramble to fill the void.
Now, Buccaneers fans find themselves in a similar situation. Coen’s short stint in Tampa Bay was a success, with the Bucs ranking in the top five in total offense and securing a playoff berth. Yet, just as the team appeared poised to build on that momentum, Coen decided to jump ship again. This feels all too familiar and is a big I told you so moment.
Fan Reactions Highlight Frustration as Offensive Coordinator is crucial
The timing of Coen’s move has been a major sticking point for both fanbases. Kentucky fans were vocal about feeling blindsided when he left after seemingly committing to building a long-term offensive powerhouse. Buccaneers fans are now echoing those sentiments, with some taking to social media to call Coen out. All Kentucky football fans can say is they told you so.
To recap this unprecedented situation:
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) January 23, 2025
- Liam Coen was the #Jaguars' top target for their HC position.
- He was set to interview on Wednesday, but then withdrew his name.
- The Bucs then offered him an extension to become one of the highest-paid coordinators in the league.
- The… pic.twitter.com/yI9Vs4AgZo
Liam Coen would steal 5 bucks from you then help you look for it
— 𝕁𝕠𝕖𝕝 (@Breesoverrated) January 23, 2025
Liam Coen going from job to job: pic.twitter.com/AEDZcML3M5
— WT - Lamont Enthusiast (@WildcatsTongue) January 24, 2025
Liam Coen right now… pic.twitter.com/TyR5oHS8XM
— Fantasy Footballers (@TheFFBallers) January 23, 2025
11 different jobs in 15 years. Willingly left current org for another org 10 times in 15 years. Lied to several organizations about extensions/staying with them. Why would anyone trust that Liam Coen could be the stable leader of an organization? This is insane to me pic.twitter.com/uuH9TBMlCb
— The SEC Machine (@SECbias12) January 24, 2025
Liam Coen's actions reflect a lack of integrity and character. If you want the job, own it—be honest. Tell them you’re exploring the opportunity and show respect to those who just invested in you. Leaders should embody transparency and accountability—not cowardice. That’s not who…
— 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗹𝗶™ 🏴☠️ (@TheSamerAli) January 23, 2025
How could Liam Coen even do this to the Bucs? TKras is at a loss for words. How do you feel?@TKras @TheChrisMathis #NFL pic.twitter.com/TvoCYQXp3h
— 95.3 WDAE & AM620 (@953WDAE) January 24, 2025
With Liam Coen officially leaving Tampa, Baker Mayfield will now be playing for his 8th different offensive coordinator
— BakerMuse (@MuseBaker) January 24, 2025
8 OC's in 8 years. 😞 pic.twitter.com/anTiqUWh8R
Money talks and bullshit walks. But the thing is we all believed your bullshit Liam Coen. Good for you and your HC job, now keep our name out your MF’ing mouth! We ALL good over here. 😒🏴☠️ #WeAreTheKrewe pic.twitter.com/2oLFRHHiks
— Susan Hines (@shines1205) January 24, 2025
Liam Coen after telling the Buccaneers he was coming back pic.twitter.com/Y6MiUcWw49
— Chives (@jarrett_daveler) January 24, 2025
For a deeper dive into Liam Coen’s impact on Kentucky football during his first tenure, check out this article
While Coen's career moves are undoubtedly strategic, they’ve left a trail of disappointed fanbases in their wake. Whether in Lexington or Tampa, fans are left asking the same question: Can anyone count on Coen to stay long-term?