Trevor Lawrence’s Sideline Snub of Liam Coen Stuns in Jaguars’ Blowout Loss to Bengals
Jaguars’ Trevor Lawrence Waves Off Coach in Tense Sideline Moment During Loss to Bengals
By Jake Nisse, US Sports Writer | Updated: 03:36 BST, 15 September 2025
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence sparked controversy Sunday after visibly dismissing head coach Liam Coen during a heated sideline exchange in a 24-21 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
The incident occurred in the fourth quarter after Lawrence’s high pass to receiver Dyami Brown fell incomplete. CBS broadcast footage captured Coen angrily gesturing at Lawrence to target receivers’ chests with throws. The 25-year-old QB responded by waving off the first-year coach, drawing immediate backlash on social media.
Lawrence and Coen clashed after a critical incomplete pass in the fourth quarter.
Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III criticized both parties, tweeting: “Worst thing a coach can do is show up his QB. Worst thing a QB can do is blow off his coach. The Jaguars have to fix this relationship or it’ll be a long year.”
Coen later downplayed the tension, telling reporters, “It was just one throw. I was p****d. It’s not personal—that’s emotion. Trevor stayed calm, which I need.” Despite Lawrence’s 271-yard, three-touchdown performance, his inconsistency proved costly. He completed just four of 12 targets to top receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who finished with 49 yards.
Coen urged Lawrence to adjust his throws during the tense matchup.
Bengals Rally Without Burrow
Cincinnati secured the win despite missing star QB Joe Burrow (foot injury). Backup Jake Browning’s game-winning sneak with 18 seconds left lifted the Bengals to 2-0. Jacksonville, meanwhile, fell to 0-2 amid growing concerns about Lawrence’s trajectory.
The 2021 No. 1 overall pick has regressed since his 2022 Pro Bowl season, posting a 11-17 record over his last 28 starts with 36 touchdowns and 24 interceptions. “We left plays out there again,” Lawrence admitted about his connection with Thomas.
What’s Next?
The Jaguars face division rival Houston Texans next week, hoping to salvage their season. For now, all eyes remain on whether Lawrence and Coen can mend their partnership—or if this sideline clash foreshadows deeper issues in Jacksonville.
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