The New York Jets didn’t waste any time diving into their offensive coordinator search, and now we’ve got our first finalist stepping into the spotlight. Greg Roman, a veteran NFL assistant who was let go by the Chargers just last month, is set to interview in person for the OC job early next week, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.
Roman was one of five coaches the Jets spoke with virtually last week as they began reshaping their offensive staff. The list also included former Panthers head coach Frank Reich, Dolphins passing game coordinator Darrell Bevell, Bills quarterbacks coach Ronald Curry, and Cowboys tight ends coach Lunda Wells. It’s a mix of experience and upside, but Roman stands out as one of the more seasoned names in the group.
Still, experience doesn’t always mean the top job is the right fit.
According to SNY’s Connor Hughes, the Jets are casting a wide net-not just for a new offensive coordinator, but for multiple roles on that side of the ball. Roman’s in-person interview might not be solely about the OC position. The Jets could be looking at him for a different spot entirely, especially if Reich ends up landing the coordinator role, as many around the league expect.
This kind of approach isn’t unusual. Teams often use coordinator interviews to assess broader staff fits, not just to fill one job.
It’s a way to build out a cohesive unit with coaches who complement each other’s strengths. And for someone like Roman, that could be a blessing in disguise.
Let’s be honest-Roman’s recent résumé doesn’t scream “next great OC.” His time in Los Angeles didn’t produce results, and his final stretch in Baltimore was rocky, particularly when it came to the passing game.
But that doesn’t mean he’s without value. Far from it.
What Roman has done-consistently-is build dominant rushing attacks. Think back to his time with the 49ers and Ravens.
Those offenses ran the ball with purpose, creativity, and power. Roman knows how to scheme a run game that puts defenses on their heels.
That’s a skill set that’s still highly valuable in today’s NFL, especially if it's paired with a coordinator who can handle the passing game.
That’s why a role like running game coordinator or senior offensive assistant could be the perfect fit for Roman in New York. He wouldn’t have to manage the entire offense or call plays-he’d focus on what he does best: designing and installing a run scheme that gives the Jets a physical identity on offense.
And for a team that’s struggled to find consistency on that side of the ball, adding a coach with Roman’s run-game chops could be a smart move. If Frank Reich is indeed the favorite for OC, pairing him with Roman could create a balanced offensive brain trust. Reich brings the quarterback expertise and passing-game structure, while Roman adds a layer of toughness and creativity in the trenches.
The Jets’ in-person meeting with Roman could be about more than just filling a job-it might be about building a staff that fits together like puzzle pieces. And if they can use Roman in a more focused role, they might just unlock the best version of what he brings to the table.
Bottom line: Greg Roman as offensive coordinator might not move the needle in the right direction. But Greg Roman as a run-game specialist, working in tandem with a more modern offensive mind?
That’s a different story. That’s a move that could quietly pay big dividends for Aaron Glenn’s staff-and for a Jets offense looking to find its identity.