The New York Jets are seeking help to find their next head coach and general manager.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, New York is “retaining” The 33rd Team to support them this offseason.
“Former Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum and Vikings general manager Rick Spielman will lead the project for the NFL Technology and Media company. The 33rd Team will provide its data analysis and experience to assist the Jets in their search for new leadership,” said Schefter in his post.
Additionally, Jonathan Jones of CBS said that The 33rd Team “will help identify, vet and coordinate candidates and interviews” and that it is the “first time” the group has helped a team in this capacity.
The move is unique, as it is a departure from the normal process New York has taken before in vetting and hiring candidates for its organization. However, the search heads do have experience to rely upon.
Tannenbaum famously worked for the New York Jets during their last period of success, helping to build the roster that made two straight AFC Championship games. He last worked in the NFL as the Executive Vice President of Football Operations for the Miami Dolphins, serving in that role from 2015 to 2018.
Spielman had a very long tenure with the Minnesota Vikings, serving as the team’s general manager from 2012 to 2021. He also assisted the Commanders in their general manager and head coaching searches last season.
It remains to be seen how this process will play out. However, it is an interesting choice that may provide some different results for the Jets during this process.
