If you ask New York Jets fans why their team has missed the playoffs for the last 15 seasons, you'll get an earful. From unstable quarterback situations to questionable coaching and a shaky draft record, the issues seem endless. But at the heart of it all lies one critical flaw: process failure.
Since their loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2010 AFC Championship, the Jets have struggled with a flawed approach. They've tried to shortcut their way to the playoffs, only to stumble repeatedly.
However, there's a fresh breeze blowing through Florham Park. For the first time in years, "process" is back at the forefront for the Jets, as highlighted during recent league meetings.
Understanding "process" in the NFL
So, what exactly is "process" in the NFL? It's the blueprint for how a team makes decisions, allocates its budget, and approaches the draft. Teams with a solid process make smart, strategic moves in free agency and the draft, building a championship-caliber roster over time.
If a team simply chases the biggest free agents or relies solely on raw athletic traits in draft picks, they're setting themselves up for trouble. But if they're meticulous in free agency, filling gaps with quality players without breaking the bank, and drafting intelligent, high-character players, they're on the right track.
For the first time in over a decade, the Jets seem to be on this promising path, and head coach Aaron Glenn is all in.
“Everything about what we’re doing, and what we’re going to do, is going to be process-oriented,” Glenn explained to senior reporter Eric Allen at the Annual League Meeting in Phoenix, AZ. “Having a vision is great, but being process-oriented means being detailed about the steps to achieve that vision.”
Finally, the Jets have a coach who’s all about the process, aligning perfectly with the front office's moves.
This offseason, New York has invested over $40 million in free agents and trade acquisitions. They've also stockpiled valuable draft picks, with five first-round selections over the next two drafts.
“I love everything about what we’re doing,” Glenn said. “And again, we’re going to continue to try to build.”
As Glenn describes it, building means trusting the front office to secure top talent in the 2026 draft. Many experts believe the Jets could snag the best non-quarterback in the class, along with another quality first-rounder.
If the Jets can zero in on the best available players, it will further affirm that their process is finally on the right track.