The next head coach of the New York Jets remains uncertain, but one individual has shown clear interest in the position.
According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is “very interested” in the role.
“While I haven’t spoken to Aaron recently, I can confidently say he’s highly interested in the Jets job. I believe he’d welcome the opportunity to discuss it. He interviewed with them in 2021, and at that time, he was just starting to gain attention as a potential head coach.
Now, with the Lions’ success, his reputation is stronger than ever,” Cimini shared. “He’s a strong leader and knows how to rebuild a culture. The Lions are a prime example of that transformation.”
However, the Jets may face competition for Glenn, as the New Orleans Saints are also expected to pursue him. Glenn’s connection to the Saints is notable; he finished his NFL playing career there in 2008 and later worked as their defensive backs coach from 2016 to 2020.
Glenn Could Return Home to the Jets
Glenn, 52, enjoyed a 15-year NFL playing career, starting as the Jets’ No. 12 overall pick in the 1994 draft. He spent eight of those years with the Jets and earned three Pro Bowl selections. Over his career, Glenn appeared in 205 games, recording 41 interceptions, 102 pass breakups, and 639 tackles.
Following his playing days, Glenn worked for two years as a Jets personnel scout before transitioning into coaching. A hire by the Jets would mark a homecoming, likely met with enthusiasm by fans.
Key Concerns Surrounding Glenn’s Potential Hiring
While a Glenn-Jets reunion offers an appealing narrative, it is not without challenges. Glenn lacks head coaching experience. Under Woody Johnson’s ownership, six of the Jets’ seven head coaches were first-timers.
Another issue is Glenn’s defensive background. Most Jets coaches under Johnson have been defensive specialists, with Adam Gase being the lone offensive exception—and his tenure was unsuccessful.
“My first question to Aaron Glenn in an interview would be: Who will you hire as offensive coordinator? That’s crucial for solving the team’s offensive issues,” Cimini noted.
Ultimately, NFL success comes in various forms. Coaches like John Harbaugh (special teams, Baltimore Ravens), Sean McVay (offense, Los Angeles Rams), and Mike Tomlin (defense, Pittsburgh Steelers) prove that effective leadership can emerge from diverse backgrounds.
The Jets’ priority should be finding the right leader, regardless of whether they come from an offensive or defensive background.
