The New York Jets missed out on the top head coaching candidate of this hiring cycle, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who was hired by the Chicago Bears. However, the Jets eventually chose an apple from the same tree after hiring Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn on Wednesday.
Glenn is entering one of the NFL‘s most chaotic situations. No one knows where quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver Davante Adams’ futures lie, star WR Garrett Wilson is growing tired of the organization, and the Jets defense ranked just above average (No. 15) in PFN’s Defense+ statistic.
Glenn will need to fight through all of these major situations in the coming months in hopes of having a successful first season as their head coach, and it’s clear he’s wasting no time.
NFL Insider Reveals Glenn’s Feelings on Rodgers’ Future in New York
Attempting to predict what Rodgers is thinking is as impossible a task as it comes. So Glenn left the public with no questions in regards to his opinion on the MVP’s future with the Jets.
Sports reporter Michael Kay reported (according to Jets reporter Harrison Glaser) that “There’s word out there, there’s been leaks I’ve heard, that Aaron Glenn has made it known that he would like to keep Aaron Rodgers.”
"There's word out there, there's been leaks I've heard, that Aaron Glenn has made it known that he would like to keep Aaron Rodgers."- @RealMichaelKay #Jets pic.twitter.com/dsKkwhalMo
— Harrison Glaser (@NYJetsTFMedia) January 22, 2025
Rodgers’ first season with the Jets was short-lived due to injury, while the second left much to be desired. Many were anticipating a strong comeback campaign from the 41-year-old, but instead, New York missed the playoffs as he led them to a 5-12 record. He finished the year with 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, ranking at No. 21 in PFN’s QB+ stat with a grade of 72.2/C-.
It’s understandable why Glenn wants at least one season working alongside an all-time quarterback, but there’s nothing to prove he’ll have more success than Robert Saleh, another brilliant defensive mind.
The reality is that regardless of who Glenn hopes to have run the offense next season, Rodgers will make the decision.
What Has Rodgers Said About His Future?
Prior to Week 18, Rodgers was asked if it could be his final game, and he responded: “Yeah, of course.” The legendary quarterback went on to reflect upon his football career.
“This game has given me a lot,” Rodgers said. “I’ve given a lot back to it, and I’m thankful for it. I won’t be thinking about that on game day. I’ll just be enjoying this. I’m trying to stay in the moment, but, of course, it’s been a long career. I’m really proud of what I’ve been able to be a part of, what I’ve been able to accomplish, and I’m also looking forward to a nice mental and physical rest.”
Rodgers also said he’s grateful for his opportunity with the Jets even though the team is more than likely ready to move on from him.
“I’m just more resigned to the reality of the situation,” Rodgers said. “I think there’s going to be change here, and if I’m [not] a part of the change, then I just want to make sure everybody knows I have nothing but gratitude for my time here.”
He also provided some insight into his decision-making process entering the offseason.
“I need a break mentally,” Rodgers told reporters. “I don’t want to make a decision until I’ve been able to rest mentally and physically … I just need a break to refresh, put my feet in the sand, and see where I’m at after that.”
“March is free agency. I don’t think we’re going to get that far because there’s going to be a regime change here with the GM, and then I’ll either get a call or have a conversation and go from there.”
Jets owner Woody Johnson reportedly wants to move on from Rodgers, and he wanted to bench the veteran earlier this season. It remains to be seen if Glenn’s preference to keep Rodgers would outweigh Johnson’s wishes.