Jets Positioning Themselves to Land Aaron Glenn as Head Coach

The New York Jets are casting a wide net in their search for a new head coach, but it appears they might be zeroing in on one standout candidate: Aaron Glenn. The former Pro Bowl cornerback for the Jets and current defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions has revealed that the Jets rank as his top choice should they extend him an offer for the head coaching position, according to The Post’s Brian Costello.

Glenn, who boasts an impressive résumé in coaching and professional play, could easily be scooped up by another team, as he's also been linked to the New Orleans Saints. This connection is fitting, considering Glenn concluded his playing career in New Orleans and has strong coaching ties there, having served as the defensive backs coach for five seasons before his stint with the Lions.

At 52 years old, Glenn is an in-demand candidate, having either already been interviewed by or scheduled to speak with several NFL teams, including the Jets, Saints, Bears, Jaguars, and Raiders. Interestingly, Glenn opted not to interview for the New England Patriots' head coaching vacancy, which was ultimately filled by Mike Vrabel after the team parted ways with Jerod Mayo.

Under Glenn's leadership, the Lions’ defense exhibited impressive discipline, allowing the seventh-fewest points per game during their remarkable 15-2 regular season. This success could make him an attractive option for a Jets team eager to revamp its defensive strategy and return to playoff contention.

The Jets have already conducted interviews with various coaching prospects, including the aforementioned Mike Vrabel before his New England hire, former head coach Rex Ryan, and Ron Rivera, who formerly helmed the Panthers and Commanders. Their comprehensive search also includes Chiefs coordinators Matt Nagy and Steve Spagnuolo, Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, and Commanders defensive coordinator Joe Whitt, among others.

However, it's noteworthy that the Jets did not pursue an interview with the Lions’ offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who remains a hot commodity in the coaching carousel, as they believe he may not be the right fit for their organization.

To steer their coaching search effectively, the Jets have enlisted the help of former general manager Mike Tannenbaum and ex-Vikings GM Rick Spielman. This strategic move comes after the mid-season firing of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas, leaving fans hopeful that the Jets will soon find the leadership needed to rejuvenate the franchise.

As the coaching carousel spins, the Jets' pursuit of Aaron Glenn shows promise, but will they secure their top choice before another team swoops in? Only time will tell!