We don’t know who will be the next head coach of the New York Jets, but we do know one person who wants the job: Aaron Glenn, the defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, is “very interested” in the Jets position, according to ESPN’s Rich Cimini. “Now, I haven’t spoken to Aaron in a while, but I can tell you that he really is really interested in the Jets position. I think he’d love to talk to them about it.” Glenn had an interview with the Jets in 2021, and “I think at that time he was just getting on the head coaching radar but obviously his stock with the Lions’ success is at an all-time high,” Cimini said. “The Detroit Lions are the best example in sports; he is a good leader who understands how to change a culture.”
He clarified that since the New Orleans Saints are anticipated to be interested, the Jets will face some competition for Glenn’s services. In 2008, Glenn played his last season in the NFL with the Saints. He served as the defensive backs coach there from 2016 to 2020 as well.
Jets Would Be Welcoming Glenn Back Home
Glenn, 52, spent 15 seasons as an NFL player. In 1994, he was selected by the Jets with the 12th overall pick in the first round, beginning his football career. During his playing career, he played with the Jets for eight of his fifteen seasons.
Three-time Pro Bowler Glenn made 205 appearances and 176 starts. He concluded his career with 639 total tackles, 102 pass deflections, and 41 interceptions. Prior to becoming a coach, Glenn worked as a personnel scout for the Jets for two more years following his playing career.
The Jets’ fan base would be happy to see him return if they hired him.
Glenn Would Have Some Serious Questions to Answer
A possible Glenn-Jets reunion has a sentimental component, but it’s not the ideal solution. Glenn has never held the position of head coach. Six out of the seven head coaches employed by the Jets under Woody Johnson were inexperienced. His protective nature is the other issue. With the exception of Adam Gase, who we all know how that played out, 99% of the Jets’ coaching hires under Johnson have been defensive men.
During the interview, I would ask Aaron Glenn, “Who will be your offensive coordinator?” Jets supporters are aware of how critical it is to figure out the offence. Cimini went on.
At the end of the day if you look across the NFL successful coaches come in different shapes and sizes. Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers is a seasoned defensive coach, Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams is an offensive man, and John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens has experience on special teams. Whichever side of the ball the coach comes from, the Jets must make the right hire.