According to at least one NFL coordinator, the New York Jets hit a bullseye by hiring Aaron Glenn as their head coach this offseason.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler polled league executives, scouts, and coaches regarding the best offseason moves, and the Jets found themselves firmly in the mix. The organization was widely lauded for the hire of Glenn and how he will mesh with quarterback Justin Fields.
“Several head coaching hires were lauded in league circles—most notably Ben Johnson to the Bears and Mike Vrabel to the Patriots—but the selection of Glenn in New York resonates, too. And Fields is considered by some as an ideal match for Glenn’s efforts to instill toughness in Florham Park,” wrote Fowler.
“A defensive head coach is going to run the ball with Breece Hall and a dangerous weapon to complement the offense in Fields,” Fowler recalled from an NFL coordinator. “AG will help the defense be even better, too.”
When Aaron Glenn arrived in Detroit, the Lions’ defense was among the league’s worst. However, over four seasons, he steadily orchestrated one of the NFL’s most impressive turnarounds.
Under Glenn’s direction, Detroit climbed from 29th in defensive DVOA in 2021 to a top-five finish in 2024, including a jump to 13th in 2023.
Last season, Glenn’s group thrived in high-pressure moments, leading the league in third-down defense (32.4%) and ranking second in fourth-down stops (41.4%).
Beyond the numbers, Glenn has built a reputation as a commanding presence in the locker room, a motivator who earns players’ trust, and consistently gets the most out of his roster.
Now in New York, Glenn brings that same energy and structure to a Jets team in need of identity. He’s made it clear he sees star potential in quarterback Fields and running back Hall, and has a vision to build around their dynamic skill sets on offense, while favoring a run-first offense.
If Aaron Glenn’s vision comes to life, the New York Jets may finally have their foundation for sustained success.