Tanner Engstrand knows he has his work cut out for him with the New York Jets this season.
Not only is he calling plays for the first time at the NFL level, but he’s been tasked with trying to get the most out of a former first-round pick in Justin Fields. Add in fans’ speculation that his lack of experience will lead to major struggles, and Engstrand has plenty of reasons to have a chip on his shoulder.
Despite the fanbase’s concern, Engstrand believes he’s ready for this role.
There’s reason to suspect he may be right.
Jets’ Tanner Engstrand Prepared For New Role
Engstrand got a close look at one of the league’s better play-callers in Ben Johnson. The former offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions and now head coach of the Chicago Bears transformed Detroit into one of the best offenses in the league.
While serving as Detroit’s pass-game coordinator, Engstrand was a big part in the development of the team’s scheme and strategy. He learned a ton just from watching Johnson operate as well.
“I would say Ben is an elite teacher, and really what you take from that is be clear and concise with the information you’re giving to the players and be detailed,” Engstrand said at Jets OTAs on Thursday. “Be the most detailed person at your job that you can be and leave no doubt to the players of what their job is.
“I think that was one of the best things that he did.”
The work done with Johnson has allowed Engstrand to be ready for his own shot in the NFL. Pairing with Detroit’s former defensive coordinator, Aaron Glenn, to run the offense in New York seemed like a perfect start.
“100%, absolutely ready. I’m excited to be in it,” Engstrand said. “I’ve been in a coordinator role before at multiple different places, obviously not in the NFL, but I think nine years or something like that, as a coordinator, and so I feel 100% confident. I’m excited for this opportunity.”
The biggest task at the feet of Engstrand is to find a way to turn Justin Fields into a consistent and competent quarterback. The former first round pick by the Bears is on his third team in as many seasons.
While Fields’ running ability has always been there, his struggles as a passer cannot be overlooked. He is 34th out of 38 quarterbacks in passer rating since 2021.
Despite showing some improvement in limited action with the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2024 season, Fields is still just 14-30 as a starter.
It’s a tall order for any offensive staff. Engstrand, with his experience in molding an offense to fit a pocket passer like Jared Goff, believes he can do it, though.
It helps when New York has solid players at key skill positions, and an offensive line that should be the best group on the offense. The Jets have the resources to field a better unit than people expect.
That will come down to Engstrand, though. If he can develop this system to match Fields’ skill set, and call plays at a similar effectiveness to Johnson, the Jets may have an offense that will get fans excited in 2025 and beyond.