As the New York Jets work through their search for a new defensive coordinator, one name is getting a second look-and it’s a familiar one. Chris Harris, who stepped in as interim DC for the final stretch of the 2025 season, has officially earned a second interview for the full-time role.
Harris joined the Jets last offseason as the defensive backs coach and pass-game coordinator. His promotion to interim coordinator came after Steve Wilks was dismissed midseason, and now, he’s the first candidate to be brought back for another round of interviews. That’s a notable development, especially considering the broader context of the Jets’ 2025 campaign.
Let’s not sugarcoat it: the Jets' pass defense in 2025 was historically bad. Under Harris' guidance, the secondary didn’t record a single interception all season-a first in NFL history-and they finished dead last in pass defense DVOA. That’s a tough pill to swallow for any unit, let alone one coached by a former NFL safety with a reputation for developing defensive backs.
When Harris took over as interim DC, the defense didn’t exactly turn things around, either. Over the final three games of the season, the Jets gave up 106 points. That’s more than 35 points per game-a number that underscores just how much this unit struggled to get stops, even with a new voice at the helm.
Still, league insiders continue to view Harris as a rising star in the coaching ranks. His leadership qualities and football IQ have earned him respect across NFL circles, and the fact that the Jets are giving him a second interview shows they see potential in him beyond the numbers.
But potential doesn’t always align with production, and that’s where things get complicated. Michigan defensive coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale is reportedly the early front-runner for the job, and his resume brings a lot more experience and proven success at the NFL level. If the Jets are serious about turning things around quickly, Martindale’s track record could be tough to pass up.
There’s also the broader picture to consider. Head coach Aaron Glenn is already under pressure after a 3-14 season that left fans frustrated and questioning the direction of the franchise.
Promoting Harris-after a season where the defense hit rock bottom-would only intensify the scrutiny on Glenn and the front office. It’s not just about Xs and Os; it’s about optics, accountability, and restoring trust in a fanbase that’s seen too many false starts.
The Jets’ defensive coordinator opening isn’t viewed as one of the more desirable gigs this offseason, and that’s part of the challenge. But if the franchise wants to change that narrative, this hire is going to matter-a lot. Whether they go with Harris, Martindale, or someone else entirely, the next defensive coordinator will inherit a unit that needs a complete reset, from scheme to swagger.
For now, Harris remains in the mix. And while his coaching ceiling might be high, the Jets have to weigh that against the reality of a defense that couldn’t make a single game-changing play in the secondary all year. The next move will say a lot about where this team is headed-and how soon they expect to get there.