The New York Jets secured one of the most sought-after candidates in this head coaching cycle, with former Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn in New York to make changes.
A major question regarding Glenn was if he would keep calling the defense as he did while with the Lions. On Monday, Glenn unexpectedly conceded that he won’t be managing the defense to more effectively oversee the game and fulfill other head coaching responsibilities, which makes finding a defensive coordinator crucial
A major question regarding Glenn was if he would maintain the same defensive calling approach as he had with the Lions. On Monday, Glenn unexpectedly revealed that he won’t be directing the defense in order to more effectively manage the game and address other head coaching responsibilities, highlighting the significance of the defensive coordinator selection.
On Wednesday, Glenn made a great move with that hire. Veteran NFL coach Steve Wilks is set to move to New York as the new defensive coordinator for the Jets, as reported by NFL insider Jordan Schultz.
Wilks has a long history of coaching defense at both the college and NFL levels. Most recently, he served as the secondary coach for the Carolina Panthers under Matt Rhule in 2022, until he was elevated to interim head coach following Rhule’s dismissal. In 2023, Wilks served as the defensive coordinator for a San Francisco 49ers squad that advanced to the Super Bowl.
The Jets possess a highly skilled group on that side of the field, even with some difficulties faced last season. Quinnen Williams is an elite blue chip talent at defensive tackle, and Sauce Gardner, despite having a disappointing season, remains among the best young cornerbacks in the league. Consequently, Wilks will have ample resources to utilize on defense next season.
The Jets kept expanding their team on Wednesday. Ex-Denver Broncos special teams assistant Chris Banjo is nearing an agreement with the Jets to take on the role of their new special teams coordinator, and a deal is expected to be finalized tonight, as reported by Mike Klis of 9 News. Banjo was in the NFL from 2013 to 2022, mainly focusing on special teams, and acquired crucial experience working on Sean Payton’s staff last year.
The Jets’ next priority will probably involve determining the fate of quarterback Aaron Rodgers and selecting the next offensive coordinator. It seems that Lions passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand is the leading candidate for the new OC position, prompting Glenn and his team to quickly assemble a staff in New York.
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