The New York Jets’ offseason reshuffling continues to make headlines - and this time, it involves a familiar name from NFL sidelines past. According to multiple league sources, the Jets reached out to Jon Gruden about joining new head coach Aaron Glenn’s staff. Gruden, who hasn’t held a full-time coaching role since 2021, reportedly declined the opportunity.
Gruden’s name entering the mix shows just how seriously Glenn is looking to surround himself with experienced voices as he builds out his inaugural staff. Over the past week, Glenn has been actively reaching out to veteran offensive minds, exploring options for key roles on that side of the ball.
Initially, the plan was to retain Tanner Engstrand as the offensive coordinator in title, while handing off play-calling duties to a more seasoned coach. But that plan hit a major pivot point on Tuesday, when Engstrand and the Jets mutually parted ways.
That move opens the door wide for a new offensive coordinator - and this time, the Jets are starting from scratch. The search will now go through the full hiring process, including compliance with the NFL’s Rooney Rule, which mandates interviews with minority candidates for top coaching positions.
One name already gaining traction in league circles: Frank Reich. The former Colts and Panthers head coach is considered a strong candidate for the Jets’ offensive coordinator job. Reich brings a wealth of experience, particularly in quarterback development and offensive design - two areas the Jets are clearly prioritizing as they look to stabilize their offense.
But offense isn’t the only side of the ball with question marks. Glenn, who officially took over as head coach earlier this month, still has several key vacancies to fill across his staff. The defensive coordinator role remains open, and there are holes at quarterback coach, offensive passing game coordinator, linebackers coach, defensive line coach, and other defensive positions.
It’s been a whirlwind month for the Jets - a franchise in transition after another disappointing season. Glenn, a former Jets player and most recently the defensive coordinator in Detroit, is tasked with bringing stability and identity to a team that’s struggled to find either in recent years.
Gruden, meanwhile, has stayed mostly on the NFL periphery since stepping down from the Raiders in 2021 following the release of offensive emails he sent during his time as an ESPN analyst. He did consult with the Saints during the 2023 offseason and is currently working with Barstool Sports.
For the Jets, the search now intensifies. Glenn’s vision for the team is beginning to take shape, but the clock is ticking. With the Senior Bowl underway and the NFL Combine just around the corner, this is a critical stretch for building a cohesive staff - one that can hit the ground running in 2026.