Jaguars appoint Araujo as defensive pass game coordinator amid Campanile succession talk
Mathieu Araujo joins staff after stints with Dolphins, Yale and Maine Maritime Academy; Brian Picucci hired for offensive run game
The Jacksonville Jaguars have appointed Mathieu Araujo as defensive pass game coordinator, a move that has drawn attention given his close working relationship with current defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile. Campanile has publicly commended Araujo’s high energy and meticulous coaching methods, particularly during Organized Team Activities (OTAs), leading to speculation that Araujo is a rising star who may eventually succeed him.
Araujo brings experience from his tenure with the Miami Dolphins from 2022 to 2025, where he worked under prominent defensive coordinators Brian Flores and Vic Fangio. His hiring follows the departure of previous run game coordinator Keli’i Kekuewa to Stanford, with the Jaguars filling the vacancy by bringing in Brian Picucci, who shares a history with head coach Liam Coen.
The Jaguars’ front office continues to prioritise cultural fit and “Jaguars DNA” in their coaching hires, building on a regime that has been recognised for its active offseason strategies and recent success under head coach Liam Coen. Coen finished second in NFL Coach of the Year voting last year, while offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and Campanile both completed multiple head coach interviews in January but remain with the team.
During Monday’s individual drills, Araujo was observed shouting instructions such as “Finish that fucking shit!” and “Finiiiiiiiish!” during pursuit drills. Campanile specifically commended Araujo’s work with recently re-signed cornerback Montaric “Buster” Brown, noting that Araujo has developed a specific action plan for each player.
The team’s only free agent acquisition this offseason was running back Chris Rodriguez Jr., who missed the start of OTAs with an injury. Trade acquisition Ruke Orhororo is expected to compete for a role on the defensive line. The Jaguars are known for being “offseason winners,” having implemented a new regime last year that included signing nine veteran free agents and drafting 29 rookies, including No. 2 overall pick Travis Hunter.
