New York Jets Target Top Coordinators in Head Coaching Search

The New York Jets have requested interviews with six top coaching candidates, including Joe Brady and Arthur Smith, for their head coaching position.

New York Jets Seek Interviews with Six Coaching Candidates

The New York Jets have taken the first step in finding their new head coach, requesting interviews with six prominent coordinators and assistants on Monday. The list of candidates includes a mix of experienced coaches from various NFL teams.

Among the reported candidates are three offensive coordinators: Arthur Smith (Pittsburgh Steelers), Joe Brady (Buffalo Bills), and Bobby Slowik (Houston Texans). Additionally, the Jets have requested interviews with two defensive coordinators: Aaron Glenn (Detroit Lions) and Vance Joseph (Denver Broncos). Notably, all five of these coaches will be leading their respective teams in playoff games this year.

New York Jets Expand Head Coaching Search with Additional Interviews

In addition to the five coordinators, the New York Jets (5-12) have also requested an interview with San Francisco 49ers quarterbacks coach Brian Griese. This development is part of the team's ongoing search for a new head coach.

The Jets have already conducted interviews with two experienced head coaches: former Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera and former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel. The team's search for a new head coach comes after the mid-season departure of Robert Saleh, who was fired when the team started 2-3. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich took over, but the team struggled to find consistency, finishing the season with a 3-9 record under his guidance.

Chicago Bears Seek Interview with Mike McCarthy Amid Contractual Obligations

The Chicago Bears have formally requested an interview with Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, according to reports on Monday. McCarthy, 61, is still contractually bound to the Cowboys until January 8th, although the team retains exclusive negotiating rights with him until January 14th.

As of now, the Dallas Cowboys have not responded to the Chicago Bears' interview request. The development raises questions about McCarthy's potential future with the Cowboys and whether he might be open to exploring other opportunities, including the Bears' head coaching position.

Coaching Candidates' Teams Prepare for Playoff Matchups

Arthur Smith, the Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive coordinator, is gearing up for Saturday's Wild Card matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Despite his offense ranking 23rd this season and 16th in points per game, Smith's experience will be valuable in the Jets' head coaching search. The Steelers are currently on a four-game losing streak, including a loss to the Ravens.

In contrast, Joe Brady's Buffalo Bills offense excelled this season, ranking 10th overall and second in points per game. The Bills are set to face the Denver Broncos this weekend, and Brady's success on offense makes him an attractive candidate for the Jets' head coaching position.

A look so far at who the Jets have interviewed or plan to interview for Head Coach:

➡️Jeff Ulbrich
(Interim Head Coach)
➡️Joe Brady
➡️Brian Flores
➡️Vance Joseph
➡️Mike Vrabel
➡️Bobby Slowik
➡️Matt Nagy
➡️Rex Ryan
➡️Arthur Smith
➡️Brian Griese
➡️Josh McCown
➡️Ron Rivera
➡️Aaron… pic.twitter.com/7SuwYQUfmd

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) January 6, 2025

Bobby Slowik, the Houston Texans' offensive coordinator, oversaw an offense that ranked 22nd this season. Despite quarterback C.J. Stroud's down year following a phenomenal rookie season, Slowik's experience will be considered in the Jets' search. The Texans are preparing to face the Los Angeles Chargers in Houston on Saturday.

On the defensive side, Aaron Glenn's Detroit Lions unit is coming off an impressive 31-9 win against the Minnesota Vikings, who averaged over 25 points per game this season. Glenn's defensive expertise makes him a strong candidate for the Jets' head coaching position.

Vance Joseph's Denver Broncos defense had a standout season, ranking seventh in the league and allowing the third-lowest points per game (18.3). Joseph's impressive defensive record makes a strong case for his candidacy for the Jets' head coaching position.