The New York Jets have completed the first week of their offseason training program. Back in front of the media again, head coach Aaron Glenn answered several questions, including how he handles the team’s offense.
Another big question was if and with whom the Jets would hold joint practices. In response, Glenn announced the Jets would be matching up with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for two joint practices in early August before their preseason opener on August 14.
Led by former head coach Todd Bowles, the Buccaneers faced Glenn’s Jets early in the 2025 season. Despite some late-game heroics, including a blocked field goal returned for a go-ahead touchdown by Will McDonald, the Jets fell 29-27.
The Buccaneers will provide an excellent test for this young Jets team. All-Pro tackle Tristan Wirfs will show exactly where Will McDonald and David Bailey are in their development. Meanwhile, their strong receiving core of Chris Godwin and Emeka Egbuka will help the Jets’ cornerbacks separate themselves from the competition.
Unlike years past, the Jets won’t be facing off against the New York Giants in joint practices. Given that the teams will be matching up in the last preseason game, they likely want to avoid injuries. It would’ve been fun to see second overall pick David Bailey and fifth overall pick Arvell Reese practice side by side. Instead, the Jets will have to wait until the weekend to face off against the Giants’ new head coach, John Harbaugh.
After a brutal 2025 season, Aaron Glenn has everything left to prove in 2026. The roster has been rebuilt in line with his vision. These joint practices with Tampa Bay will give a sneak peek into how much the team has improved.
