The first major rumored addition to Aaron Glenn’s potential staff with the New York Jets has surfaced.
Connor Hughes of SNY shared on social media:
“If the Jets hire Aaron Glenn as head coach, a name I’ve heard associated with him as a defensive coordinator candidate is Steve Wilks. Long-time assistant with multiple stops as a DC who also has two stints as a head coach. That’s valuable experience for a first timer in Glenn.”
Wilks Would Be a Strong Hire for the Jets
Glenn is scheduled for an in-person interview with the Jets for their head coaching vacancy on Tuesday, January 21.
“Aaron Glenn is trending toward being their head coach. It could happen today if all goes well. There’s a reason why Glenn picked the Jets for his first in-person interview. He also likes the idea of working alongside former Lions exec Lance Newmark, who also interviews today for the second time. The stars are aligning,” reported ESPN’s Rich Cimini.
“Something to note: There are many Jets players who have privately expressed excitement at the prospect of Aaron Glenn being their coach. If/when he’s hired, it will be received well in the locker room,” added Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic.
Should Glenn be hired, his coaching staff selections will play a pivotal role in his success.
As a first-time head coach, Glenn would benefit greatly from experienced personnel.
Wilks, 55, has been coaching football since 1995 and transitioned to the NFL in 2006. He has served as a longtime defensive coordinator and has held multiple head coaching roles, including interim stints.
Other Potential Jets Coaching Staff Rumors
“One coach to keep an eye on for a potential Aaron Glenn Jets staff: Lions defensive assistant Jim O’Neil. Coached in Cleveland when Glenn started his coaching career. Was a Jets coach when Glenn was a scout. Has been a DC in the NFL. O’Neil came to Detroit in 2024,” shared Rosenblatt.
However, Glenn’s most crucial hire would be on the offensive side of the ball, addressing the team’s longstanding struggles in that area.
The Jets have endured offensive issues for the majority of the last 14 seasons, contributing to their franchise-record playoff drought. This has led fans to demand an offensive-minded head coach.
Under owner Woody Johnson, the Jets have hired only one offensive-oriented head coach in the past 25 years. That experiment, involving Adam Gase, ended poorly with a 9-23 record.
Since then, the Jets have steered clear of offensive-minded candidates. Across the NFL, successful coaches have emerged from various backgrounds, including offense, defense, and special teams. Ultimately, the key is hiring the right leader.
