Aaron Glenn Becomes Jets Head Coach, Eyes Tanner Engstrand as Offensive Coordinator

The New York Jets have found their next leader, bringing in Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn as their new head coach. Returning to New York, where he once played, Glenn has climbed the coaching ranks and now steps into a crucial role. However, as a defensive-minded coach, his choice for offensive coordinator is critical to the team’s success.

According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, Lions passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand is expected to join Glenn’s staff as the Jets’ offensive coordinator.

“Tanner Engstrand’s anticipated departure from Detroit is complete, I’m told, with all signs pointing to the Jets,” Cimini reported. “So it looks like they will go first-time coordinator and first-time HC again, barring something unforeseen.”

Tanner Engstrand’s Coaching Journey

Engstrand’s coaching career began at the University of San Diego under Jim Harbaugh. Starting as a graduate assistant in 2005, he worked his way up to assistant head coach, quarterbacks coach, and offensive coordinator from 2013 to 2017. He later joined Harbaugh’s Michigan Wolverines staff for a season before transitioning to the professional ranks.

His pro career began in the XFL, where he served as the offensive coordinator for the DC Defenders. In 2020, he joined the Lions as an offensive assistant and eventually became their passing game coordinator. While Engstrand has extensive coaching experience, he has never called plays at the NFL level. That makes this a bold and uncertain move for the Jets.

A Risky but Potentially Rewarding Choice

Aaron Glenn has never been a head coach at the NFL level, making this a defining moment in his career. His partnership with general manager Darren Mougey and defensive coordinator Steve Wilks is untested. Hiring someone he knows for offensive play-calling is a strategic move, but whether it pays off remains to be seen.

The Lions had an impressive season, securing 15 wins and clinching the No. 1 seed. However, their playoff disappointment left lingering doubts about their offense. While Engstrand wasn’t responsible for calling plays in Detroit, Jets fans may worry about his lack of direct experience in that role.

Nevertheless, the Lions have become a model franchise for struggling NFL teams, a transformation that was unthinkable just five years ago. Glenn hopes to bring that same culture of success to the Jets, just as former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson now aims to do with the Chicago Bears. Engstrand’s hiring carries risks, but his connection to Glenn could help smooth the transition.

The Next Big Decision: Quarterback

With their coaching staff nearly finalized, the Jets now face their biggest offseason decision—who will lead their offense at quarterback? The relationship between Engstrand and Aaron Rodgers will be crucial in determining the team’s success in 2025.

However, Glenn has not yet committed to bringing Rodgers back next season. That uncertainty adds another layer of intrigue to an already pivotal offseason for the New York Jets.