It’s been over a year since Joe Douglas was the general manager for the New York Jets.
Despite some positives from the front office executive, he couldn’t escape the failures of a 30-64 record over five seasons with the organization. Midway through the 2024 season, the Jets finally moved on from the man the kids called G.M. Joe.
Following that dismissal, he landed a job as a senior personnel assistant with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Much like his former coach in Robert Saleh, though, Douglas’ time in exile away from a top role may be short-lived. Saleh was recently hired as the head coach of the Tennessee Titans after a one-year stint as the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive coordinator.
Douglas could be in a similar boat now — just in the NFC instead.
Former Jets’ GM interviews elsewhere
CBS Sports reported Thursday evening that the Atlanta Falcons have requested permission from Philadelphia to interview Douglas for their open general manager job.
Atlanta cleaned house in their front office after a disappointing 2025 season. Under the leadership of then-general manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris, the Falcons went 8-9 and missed winning the NFC South by a half game.
What makes Douglas’ interview so interesting, though, is the dynamics behind it.
With the Jets, Douglas had full control of the personnel and coaching hires. It was he who decided to hire Saleh in 2021. Saleh reported to Douglas, who then reported to owner Woody Johnson.
That dynamic clearly wouldn’t be there in Atlanta. The Falcons have already hired Kevin Stefanski for their head coaching position. Now they just need the GM.
It appears that they are willing to hear Douglas out regarding his failings with the Jets.
Time will tell whether the 49-year-old will get the job, but this is the former Jet executive’s first such interview for a top job. Based on how popular his name has been around league circles, it won’t be the last.
