Veteran back Ameer Abdullah breaks down how Liam Coen’s dynamic scheme maximizes yards after catch, transforming every Jaguar into a threat while modernizing Jacksonville’s offensive identity.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have entered Year 2 of the Liam Coen era, and their offense hasn't shown signs of regression, aiming to extend their dominance from last season into the next.
Running back Ameer Abdullah sang the praises of Coen's scheme, which can turn any receiver into a playmaker. Coen turned the offense around, bringing Jacksonville up from 25th in total yards per game (306.2) to 11th (337.4).
"I think this is an offense that can hurt you in a number of ways," Abdullah said. "You know, it allows guys to be playmakers, you know, get this ball out of the quarterback's hands fast to allow us to get a lot of YAC (yards after catch)."
Wide receiver Parker Washington, tight end Brenton Strange and former Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. ended the year with over 200 yards after catch. It highlights the strength of the coach's playcalling and quarterback Trevor Lawrence consistently finding open receivers during his progressions.
Abdullah was a new offseason acquisition, signing with the team on May 11. The 33-year-old admitted he had to play catch-up as others were moving at a different speed from a "cerebral standpoint."
Arriving before OTAs, Abdullah has acclimated to Coen's offense very quickly. He played in Jacksonville's 34-17 preseason loss to the Carolina Panthers, rushing for 45 yards on six carries and catching three passes for 37 yards.
The veteran is competing against DeeJay Dallas and undrafted rookie J'Mari Taylor for a roster spot. While he's battling to continue his NFL career for a 12th season, Abdullah is embracing a leadership role for a young position group.
He said it's a privilege to mentor the younger players, and appreciates when they come to his aid and ask questions.
"Even if it's a question that's quote-unquote a stupid question, they'll ask it just because they want to know," Abdullah said. "They want to get better, and they want to put themselves in a position to have a long and successful career."
Abdullah hasn't had the most success since coming out of Nebraska in 2025 as the 54th overall pick by the Detroit Lions. But he knows what it takes to stay in the league and contribute.
The second-round pick played the most offensive snaps of his career (801) in four seasons with the Lions. Detroit waived him in 2018, and he signed with the Minnesota Vikings in November.
Since joining Minnesota, Abdullah has made his impact on special teams. He's expected to play the same role in Jacksonville, returning kickoffs.
Abdullah averaged 362.1 yards throughout his career returning the ball. He strengthens a kick return unit that ranked sixth at 27.4 yards per game, and could fill in for LeQuint Allen Jr., who is sidelined with an injury.
