Aaron Glenn's Defensive Search for the New York Jets
The New York Jets are in the midst of a significant coaching overhaul, and at the center of it all is head coach Aaron Glenn. Glenn, who took the helm last year, is now tasked with finding a new defensive coordinator to help turn around a struggling defense. With the 2026 NFL season on the horizon, the pressure is on for Glenn to make the right decision.
The Departure of Steve Wilks
Steve Wilks was fired as the Jets' defensive coordinator on December 15, with just three games remaining in a disastrous 3-14 season. The decision came as no surprise, given the team's poor defensive performance throughout the year. Since then, Glenn has been working behind the scenes to find a replacement, adopting a strategy of moving in silence and avoiding the headlines that often surround the Jets.
Wink Martindale Emerges as a Top Contender
Among the candidates being considered, veteran defensive coordinator Wink Martindale has emerged as the early front-runner. Martindale, who has experience with the University of Michigan, the New York Giants, and the Baltimore Ravens, is known for his blitz-heavy style, which seems to align well with Glenn's vision for the Jets' defense. According to multiple league sources, Glenn spoke with Martindale before the end of the season, signaling his strong interest in the candidate.
Other Candidates in the Running
While Martindale may be the frontrunner, Glenn has also considered other candidates. The Jets have reportedly interviewed several defensive coaches, including Vikings defensive backs coach Daronte Jones, interim Jets defensive coordinator Chris Harris, Packers run game coordinator DeMarcus Covington, Broncos pass game coordinator/assistant head coach Jim Leonhard, Lions defensive assistant Jim O'Neil, Browns safeties coach Ephraim Banda, and Dolphins cornerbacks coach Matt Araujo. Despite these options, Martindale remains the leading candidate.
Challenges for Glenn
Glenn faces several challenges as he rebuilds his coaching staff. One of the biggest hurdles is the perception that he could be on the hot seat heading into the 2026 season. While Jets owner Woody Johnson has not publicly indicated that Glenn is in danger of being replaced, Johnson has been silent since the league meetings in October, when he placed blame for the team's struggles on quarterback Justin Fields and expressed his belief that Glenn was still the right man for the job.
The State of the Jets' DefenseAnother challenge for Glenn is the state of the Jets' defense. The team currently lacks blue-chip players and playmakers, which makes it a less appealing opportunity for sought-after coordinators. The Jets went an entire season with zero interceptions, a stark indication of the defense's struggles. While there is some talent on the roster, including players like Jowon Briggs, Harrison Phillips, Will McDonald, Jermaine Johnson, Jamien Sherwood, and Brandon Stephens, consistency has been an issue. Young players such as Jarvis Brownlee, Azareye’h Thomas, and Malachi Moore have shown flashes of potential, but the defense as a whole needs significant improvement.Glenn's Strategy and the Future
Glenn's Strategy and the Future
Glenn's strategy of moving in silence and keeping his coaching search in-house has been a deliberate effort to avoid the chaos and distractions that often surround the Jets. By maintaining a low profile, Glenn hopes to rebuild his staff without the intense media scrutiny that often accompanies coaching changes in New York. This approach has led to a protracted search, with holdover defensive position coaches in a holding pattern, waiting for Glenn to make a decision.
Conclusion
As the NFL offseason progresses, all eyes are on Aaron Glenn and his efforts to find the right defensive coordinator for the New York Jets. With Wink Martindale emerging as the early favorite, the team's defense could be on the cusp of a significant transformation. However, Glenn must navigate the challenges of his own job security and the team's lack of defensive talent. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the direction of the Jets' defense and, ultimately, the team's future in the league.
