This summer, the New York Jets defense has been tasked with adapting to a new scheme and principles under a fresh regime.
The unit’s progress has caught the attention of defensive coordinator Steve Wilks.
Speaking to the media at Jets training camp, Wilks commended the defense for its progress throughout the summer while adding that the unit still has a long way to go before it reaches its ceiling.
“I think we are progressing,” said the veteran coach. “We are definitely a long way from where we need to be, but I see the progress each and every day, particularly once we put on the pads, and that is always a key. I think Coach [Aaron Glenn] is doing an outstanding job on how we are orchestrating practice and creating live tempo situations, so we are definitely a long way away, but I like the direction in which we are going.”
Wilks, 55, joined the Jets staff as the team’s defensive coordinator earlier this offseason, last serving in that role with the San Fransico 49ers during the 2023 season under head coach Kyle Shanahan.
Throughout training camp, head coach Aaron Glenn has also emphasized the importance of progress and experimenting with new ideas.
“We break those expectations down in stages, so the only thing I want those guys to think about is what we’re trying to create in training camp,” said Glenn. “We understand the Super Bowl’s down the line, that’s the overall goal, but man, the expectation of training camp is that we’re trying to create certain things.”
With training camp well underway and the team’s first preseason game less than two weeks away, Gang Green looks to continue to build on every practice.