The New York Jets are once again at a pivotal crossroads, this time in their search for a new offensive coordinator following the surprising dismissal of Tanner Engstrand. With a roster that includes a high-profile quarterback and a fanbase hungry for results, the decision looming over Florham Park isn't just about X’s and O’s-it’s about finding the right voice to lead an offense that’s struggled to find consistency.
Right now, the Jets’ shortlist is down to three names: Greg Roman, Frank Reich, and Darrell Bevell. Each brings a unique résumé, NFL experience, and a distinct offensive philosophy. Let’s break down what each candidate offers-and what it could mean for the Jets’ offense moving forward.
Greg Roman: The Power Run Architect
Greg Roman is best known for his work designing run-heavy offenses that maximize quarterback mobility and physicality in the trenches. He helped shape Lamar Jackson’s early success in Baltimore, building an offense that leaned into Jackson’s dynamic dual-threat ability. Roman’s time with the Ravens showcased his ability to craft a scheme around a quarterback’s strengths, something the Jets could certainly use.
More recently, Roman spent two seasons with the Chargers under Jim Harbaugh, though his time in L.A. didn’t quite unlock Justin Herbert’s full potential. That’s a red flag when considering the Jets’ own quarterback situation, but Roman’s overall track record still holds weight. His offenses have consistently ranked near the top in rushing, and if the Jets are looking to establish a more physical identity-especially behind a rebuilt offensive line-Roman could be the guy to bring that vision to life.
Frank Reich: The Steady Hand with Head Coaching Experience
Frank Reich’s name carries a certain gravitas. He’s been a head coach, a coordinator, and a quarterback whisperer at times.
His most notable run came with the Indianapolis Colts, where he led a balanced, efficient offense from 2018 to 2022. Reich’s ability to adapt to different quarterbacks-from Andrew Luck to Philip Rivers to Carson Wentz-speaks to his flexibility and leadership.
That said, Reich’s most recent stint in Carolina didn’t go as planned. The Panthers’ offense was disjointed, and the team struggled to find rhythm before Reich was let go.
But one rough year doesn’t erase the body of work he’s built over the last decade. For the Jets, Reich could bring a calming, experienced presence to a locker room that’s dealt with its fair share of turbulence.
His reputation for quarterback development could also be a selling point, especially if the Jets are still banking on a bounce-back season under center.
Darrell Bevell: The Veteran Play-Caller with Something to Prove
Darrell Bevell has been around the NFL block. He was the offensive coordinator during the height of the Seahawks’ success under Pete Carroll, helping guide Russell Wilson through his early years and playing a key role in Seattle’s Super Bowl run. Bevell’s offense in Seattle was built on balance-establishing the run, taking deep shots, and playing complementary football.
But since then, things haven’t gone quite as smoothly. Bevell coordinated a struggling Lions offense in 2020 and stepped in as interim head coach after Matt Patricia’s firing.
A year later, he found himself in the same spot in Jacksonville, taking over after Urban Meyer’s chaotic exit. Those situations were far from ideal, and while Bevell wasn’t solely responsible for those teams’ struggles, his recent track record doesn’t inspire the same confidence as his earlier years.
Still, Bevell brings experience and a no-nonsense approach to play-calling. If the Jets are looking for a coordinator who’s been through the NFL’s highs and lows and can provide a steady hand, Bevell could be a candidate worth considering-though he likely enters this race as the underdog.
What’s Next for the Jets?
A decision could come soon, and whoever lands the job will inherit one of the most scrutinized roles in the league. The Jets have talent, but they need direction.
They need someone who can scheme effectively, communicate clearly, and adapt on the fly. Whether that’s Roman’s ground-and-pound philosophy, Reich’s quarterback-centric approach, or Bevell’s veteran savvy, the Jets’ next move will say a lot about how they plan to attack the 2026 season-and how they plan to get the most out of an offense that’s long overdue for a breakthrough.