The New York Jets are heading into the 2026 season with a familiar face still in the building, but his role might be shifting. Offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand remains on staff following new head coach Aaron Glenn’s recent staff overhaul, but according to multiple reports, Engstrand likely won’t be calling plays next season.
While nothing has been officially decided, Engstrand has reportedly told those close to him that he doesn't expect to retain play-calling duties in 2026. That opens the door for the Jets to make a significant adjustment on the offensive side of the ball - and possibly bring in a new voice to steer the unit on Sundays.
To formally hire a new offensive coordinator, the Jets would need to undergo a full search process, including compliance with the Rooney Rule. However, there’s a potential workaround: they could bring in a senior offensive consultant and hand that person the play sheet on game days. That route would allow for a fresh approach without the formalities of a full OC hire.
One name that’s already being linked to that kind of role is Frank Reich, the former head coach of both the Panthers and Colts. Reich brings a wealth of experience and has long been respected for his work with quarterbacks and offensive schemes. If the Jets are looking to stabilize and elevate their offense, Reich would be a logical candidate to consider.
As for Engstrand, his coaching résumé is a winding road of steady progression. He got his start at the University of San Diego back in 2005 as a graduate assistant and climbed the ladder there, eventually serving as offensive coordinator and assistant head coach.
His journey took him to Michigan as an offensive analyst in 2018, followed by a stint as the DC Defenders’ offensive coordinator in the UFL in 2020. He broke into the NFL with the Detroit Lions in 2021, first as an offensive assistant, then as tight ends coach, and later as passing game coordinator in 2023.
In 2025, Engstrand made the jump to offensive coordinator with the Jets. But the results weren’t what the team had hoped for.
New York’s offense struggled mightily, finishing 29th in both scoring and total yardage. The ground game showed signs of life, ranking 10th in rushing, but the passing attack hit rock bottom - dead last in the league.
That kind of imbalance is hard to ignore. The Jets clearly have pieces in the run game, but their inability to move the ball through the air has been a major roadblock. Whether it’s a new coordinator, a senior consultant, or a reshuffled offensive brain trust, something has to give.
With Aaron Glenn now in charge and offseason changes already underway, the Jets are signaling a desire to reset and retool. Engstrand may still be part of that equation, but it’s looking more and more like someone else will be holding the keys to the offense in 2026.