Aaron Glenn raised eyebrows among NFL fans after revealing his plans not to call plays for the New York Jets defensively. The former Detroit Lions defensive coordinator made an eye-catching statement in response to a specific question about his playcalling future.
Aaron Glenn Explains Reasoning Behind Not Calling Plays for the Jets’ Defense
Glenn was introduced as the Jets’ new head coach on Monday, Jan. 27. The 52-year-old fielded many difficult questions throughout his introductory press conference.
One was about whether he would call the Jets’ defense. Glenn categorically stated his decision not to take that duty up and explained why.
“I want to be the best head coach you can find, and in order for me to do that, I think I need to manage the game, so I will have my OC and DC, those guys will be calling the plays. … [Staff-wise], I’m looking for the best coaches that are gonna help us succeed.”
Aaron Glenn says he will NOT call the defense: #Jets
"I want to be the best Head Coach you can find, & in order for me to do that, I need to manage the game, so I will have an OC & DC, & those guys will be calling the plays. Staff wise, I'm looking for the best coaches that are… pic.twitter.com/bFHid68mMz
— Harrison Glaser (@NYJetsTFMedia) January 27, 2025
“And I do believe coaches are the start of your culture, so every coach will be looked at to make sure they can bring that. I’ve always taught that it’s not coachable, it’s compatible, and I want to make sure the coaches that we bring in are compatible.”
It is hard to find fault with Glenn’s reasoning. While he does have a record of stellar playcalling, Glenn will be a first-time head coach during his Jets tenure.
The former defensive coordinator’s success will hinge, in large part, upon his ability to adapt to a new role and make decisions as the person with whom the buck stops. Glenn will also need to make offensive adjustments in consultation with his offensive coaching staff during the game.
The Jets have a stellar roster on the defensive side of the ball. Although the unit regressed after Robert Saleh’s firing midseason, they have talent all across the board. The likes of Quinnen Williams, Sauce Gardner, C.J. Mosley, Quincy Williams, and D.J. Reed are all Pro Bowl-caliber players and leaders. The team finished 15th on PFN’s NFL Defense rankings.
Glenn’s primary concern should be to improve the team at the trenches — especially offensive line play. While investments will need to be made in the NFL Draft, the team also has to up its discipline and coaching fundamentals with that position group.
The Jets will also be dealing with the looming prospect of an aging yet productive quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, whose contract and potential retirement are hanging over the Jets.