Aaron Glenn is now in the market for both a new offensive and defensive coordinator.
On Tuesday, offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand and the Jets mutually parted ways, sources confirm to the Daily News.
Glenn and Engstrand had recently discussed his role moving forward. Glenn initially planned to keep Engstrand on staff while reducing his responsibilities, including stripping him of play-calling duties. But both sides thought it was best to part ways instead.
Last week, reports surfaced that Glenn was considering adding a veteran offensive coach to his staff following a 3-14 season. SNY reported over the weekend that one of the coaches the Jets have spoken to is Frank Reich, the former Colts and Panthers head coach. Reich, 64, spent last season as Stanford’s interim coach.
One of Glenn’s first hires was making Engstrand, with whom he worked in Detroit, his offensive coordinator. It was the first time Engstrand had called plays at the NFL level after serving as the Lions’ passing game coordinator for three seasons.
The Jets under Engstrand fielded one of the worst offenses in the league last season. They finished No. 29 in both yards and points per game. In addition, the Jets were last in passing yards because of a doomed quarterback situation.
Justin Fields signed a two-year, $40 million contract with the Jets last year. After stops with the Bears and Steelers, the Jets hoped that Fields would be the latest quarterback to revive his career in a different location.
However, the Jets began the season 0-7 and Fields was benched in November following a Thursday night loss to the Patriots. Jets owner Woody Johnson even criticized Fields for his inept play and unwillingness to throw the ball quickly.
The Jets offense wasn’t any better without Fields. They also started Tyrod Taylor and Brady Cook, but they won just one game after benching Fields. It didn’t help that Garrett Wilson, the Jets top wideout, missed 10 games due to a knee injury.
Glenn’s staff is undergoing several other changes this offseason. He fired defensive coordinator Steve Wilks in December and is still interviewing candidates for the role. Last week, the Jets also fired quarterbacks coach Charles London, pass game coordinator Scott Turner, linebackers coach Aaron Curry, defensive line coach Eric Washington, assistant defensive backs coach Dre Bly, defensive assistant Alonso Escalante, and defensive assistant Roosevelt Williams.
