The New York Jets are continuing their offseason overhaul, and the latest addition to Aaron Glenn’s staff is a name familiar to AFC North fans. Former Pittsburgh Steelers tight ends coach Alfredo Roberts is heading to New York to take on the same role under Glenn, according to multiple reports.
Roberts, who had been with the Steelers since 2021, was not retained by new head coach Mike McCarthy. While Pittsburgh hasn’t named his replacement just yet, the hiring of Brian Angelichio as offensive coordinator suggests some changes are coming to the tight ends room. Angelichio, who previously coached tight ends with the Vikings, will likely have a hand in shaping that part of the offensive staff.
For the Jets, Roberts becomes the latest addition in what’s shaping up to be a fresh start under Glenn. After a rough debut season in New York, Glenn cleaned house on much of his staff, hoping to inject new energy and perspective into the building. Roberts brings both experience and a track record of player development - something the Jets could use as they try to turn the page.
During his time in Pittsburgh, Roberts helped guide the growth of tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington. Freiermuth quickly became a reliable target and red zone option, while Washington, known for his size and blocking ability, showed flashes of becoming a complete tight end. That kind of development is what the Jets are banking on as they look to maximize the potential of their own tight end group.
Roberts’ coaching résumé is as deep as it is diverse. After a six-year playing career as a tight end with the Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys from 1988 to 1993, he transitioned into coaching in 1999 at Florida Atlantic, starting with running backs.
Since then, he’s held tight ends coaching roles with the Colts, Browns, Jaguars, and Chargers - even switching back to running backs coach for the Chargers from 2017 to 2019. That versatility and longevity speak to his adaptability and ability to connect with players across different systems.
He also reunites in New York with another former Steelers assistant, defensive line coach Karl Dunbar. The familiarity between the two could help ease the transition as Glenn builds a new culture within the Jets organization.
For Roberts, this is another chapter in a long coaching journey. For the Jets, it’s another step toward reshaping a staff that’s tasked with turning things around - and fast.