Jets Roundup: Coaching Staff Finalized, QB Rumors Swirling, and Free Agency Plans Taking Shape
It’s a busy February Friday in Florham Park, and the New York Jets are making moves-on the sidelines and potentially under center. With the offseason in full swing, Gang Green is laying the groundwork for what could be a pivotal 2026 campaign. From finalized coaching hires to quarterback speculation heating up, here’s what’s happening around the Jets.
Defensive Coaching Staff Comes Into Focus
Aaron Glenn has officially completed his defensive coaching staff, locking in four new hires that round out the unit. Glenn, who brings a strong reputation as a motivator and tactician, is clearly putting his stamp on this defense. The additions are expected to bring fresh energy and perspective to a group that has shown flashes of dominance but struggled with consistency last season.
The hires signal a commitment to refining the Jets’ defensive identity-something Glenn has been vocal about since taking the job. With a roster that boasts elite-level talent at key positions, particularly on the defensive line and in the secondary, the pieces are there. Now, it’s about aligning those pieces with a coaching staff that can maximize their potential.
New Offensive Coaches Bring Intriguing Backgrounds
On the other side of the ball, the Jets have also introduced several new offensive coaches, and early impressions are promising. The group brings a mix of NFL and college experience, with a few names standing out for their innovative approaches and player development chops.
From scheme flexibility to quarterback mentoring, these hires suggest the Jets are serious about fixing an offense that has been stuck in neutral far too often. One of the more interesting sidebars? A couple of these coaches have direct experience working with dual-threat quarterbacks-a detail that could become important depending on how the QB situation shakes out.
Special Teams: Quietly a Strength
While the offense and defense get most of the headlines, the Jets’ special teams quietly ranked among the league’s best in several categories last season. From coverage units to return game efficiency, it was one of the more reliable phases of the game for New York.
With much of the core group expected back-and a coaching staff that emphasizes fundamentals-the Jets have a solid foundation to build on. Special teams won’t win you a Super Bowl on its own, but it can absolutely swing a few games over the course of a season. The Jets know that, and they’re treating it accordingly.
Quarterback Carousel: Who’s Next for the Jets?
And now, the question that won’t go away: Who will be under center for the Jets in 2026?
The rumor mill is churning again, and this time Shedeur Sanders' name is making the rounds. While nothing concrete has emerged, whispers around the league are getting louder. Sanders brings a unique skill set-poise, mobility, and a high football IQ-but whether the Jets are seriously in play remains to be seen.
Elsewhere, Sam Darnold resurfaced in Jets headlines with a heartfelt message to fans. It’s a reminder of how much the franchise has searched for stability at the position-and how elusive it’s been.
Meanwhile, Derek Carr has been floated as a possible offseason target. Carr would bring veteran leadership and a steady presence, but it’s unclear how he fits into the Jets’ long-term vision. Still, given the current state of the QB room, it’s not surprising his name is in the conversation.
Jets Expected to Be Aggressive in Free Agency
Reports suggest the Jets plan to be active when free agency opens. That tracks with the urgency coming out of the building. With a defense that’s close to elite and a coaching staff now fully assembled, the front office knows this roster needs offensive reinforcements-particularly up front and at quarterback.
Don’t be surprised if the Jets make multiple moves at the QB position. After the Justin Fields experiment fizzled, the team seems intent on creating true competition and depth. Whether that means signing a veteran, drafting a prospect, or both, the message is clear: the status quo isn’t cutting it.
More Names in the Mix, More Decisions Ahead
The Kyler Murray trade rumors are back, and yes, the Jets are reportedly among the teams considered a fit. Murray’s talent is undeniable, but his injury history and contract situation make him a complicated target. Still, when you’re in the Jets’ position-desperate for a franchise quarterback-you have to explore every avenue.
There’s also chatter about the Jets using their second overall pick in a less conventional way. A few “outside the box” options are being floated, from trading down to targeting a non-quarterback. It’s early, but the front office appears open to creative solutions.
Veteran Watch: Nick Folk’s Future in Question
One final note: longtime NFL kicker Nick Folk’s future is reportedly up in the air. While not directly tied to the Jets’ current plans, any movement there could impact the special teams landscape. Folk has been one of the league’s most reliable legs for years, and any update on his status is worth monitoring.
The bottom line? The Jets are in motion.
A completed coaching staff, quarterback questions swirling, and an aggressive free agency approach all point to a franchise that knows it can’t afford another lost season. The foundation is being laid-it’s up to the front office and coaching staff to build something that lasts.