The Jacksonville Jaguars have finally filled their last general manager vacancy of the offseason by hiring James Gladstone. Following the dismissal of former GM Trent Baalke almost a month ago, the team wasted no time in bringing in his replacement. At the age of 34, Gladstone emerged as the youngest among the five finalists for the Jaguars’ general manager position. He comes to Jacksonville after spending nine years with the Los Angeles Rams.
Gladstone began his tenure with the Rams in 2016 as a senior assistant to general manager Les Snead, eventually advancing to the role of director of scouting strategy. Notably, he has previously worked with the Jaguars’ new head coach Liam Coen. Coen, who previously served as an assistant offensive coach in Los Angeles from 2018 to 2020, then as the Rams’ offensive coordinator in 2022.
Jaguars owner Shad Khan expressed his confidence in Gladstone, stating, “James emerged as my choice following a painstaking but energizing interview process that left nothing to doubt. In the end, we found James to be exceptional in every regard – vision, new ideas, communication, chemistry, and a keen understanding of the league and our team.” Khan emphasized the excitement of watching Gladstone collaborate with the Jaguars’ football leadership team, comprising Liam Coen, Tony Boselli (executive vice president of football operations), and Tony Khan (chief football strategy officer).
Having been part of the Rams front office that orchestrated the roster leading to their Super Bowl 56 victory in 2022, Gladstone brings a successful track record. Notable achievements during his tenure include the blockbuster trade for quarterback Matthew Stafford in March 2021 and the strategic drafting of talents like Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua in subsequent years.
Now tasked with revitalizing the Jaguars and steering them back to playoff contention following a disappointing 4-13 season in 2024, Gladstone’s primary focus will be on building a competitive roster around former No. 1 overall pick Trevor Lawrence. Lawrence, who recently signed a lucrative contract extension, will look to lead the team to future success under the guidance of the new leadership.
