In a move that has the sports world buzzing, the New York Jets are set to hire Frank Reich as their new offensive coordinator, according to league sources. But here's where it gets controversial: is Reich the right man to turn around a struggling offense, especially after his recent tumultuous stints? Let’s dive into the details.
After weeks of speculation and a thorough search, Jets head coach Aaron Glenn has finally landed his top target. The decision comes on the heels of parting ways with Tanner Engstrand, last year’s offensive coordinator, whose departure was announced just last week. Reich emerged as the frontrunner early on, beating out notable candidates like Greg Roman and Darrell Bevell, who both interviewed in person. Lunda Wells and Ronald Curry were also in the running, conducting virtual interviews.
This marks Reich’s return to leading an NFL offense since his abrupt firing as head coach of the Carolina Panthers during the 2023 season. Meanwhile, the Jets have also bolstered their defensive staff by hiring Brian Duker from the Miami Dolphins as their new defensive coordinator, though Glenn is expected to call the defensive plays, according to multiple sources.
And this is the part most people miss: Glenn’s pursuit of Reich wasn’t just about finding an offensive coordinator—it was about finding a seasoned leader who could act as the ‘head coach of the offense,’ allowing Glenn to focus on shoring up the defense. This included a surprising outreach to Jon Gruden, the former Raiders and Buccaneers coach turned media personality, who reportedly wasn’t interested. Reich, however, was swayed by Glenn’s pitch, which included a lucrative salary offer for a coordinator role—typically ranging from $3 to $5 million annually.
At 64, Reich was reportedly considering retirement before Glenn’s offer. Their shared history likely played a role: the two were teammates on the Jets in 1996, a season that ended with a dismal 1-15 record under Rich Kotite. Now, three decades later, they’re reuniting with the same franchise, aiming to rewrite history.
Reich’s reputation as a quarterback developer and a positive influence on players is well-earned. He played a pivotal role in the 2017 Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl victory, transforming Carson Wentz into an MVP contender and seamlessly transitioning to Nick Foles after Wentz’s injury. His tenure with the Indianapolis Colts from 2018 to 2022 showcased his adaptability, as he led the offense to impressive rankings in EPA, scoring, and third-down conversions—all with different quarterbacks each season: Andrew Luck, Jacoby Brissett, Philip Rivers, and Wentz.
But here’s the controversial part: Reich’s recent track record raises eyebrows. In 2022, the Colts’ offense plummeted to near the bottom of the league in nearly every category under his leadership with Matt Ryan at the helm. His stint with the Panthers was even more disappointing, with the team going 1-10 before his midseason firing. The offense ranked among the worst in the league across the board. And at Stanford, where talent was scarce, the results were equally grim, with the team ranking 122nd in scoring nationally.
The Jets’ situation isn’t exactly ideal for Reich. They currently lack a starting quarterback, and with the second pick in the draft, they’re unlikely to land the top QB prospect, Fernando Mendoza, who’s projected to go first. Trading for Brissett, now with the Cardinals, could be an option, though Wentz—a free agent—seems less likely given their history in Indianapolis. On the bright side, star wide receiver Garrett Wilson is set to return after an injury-plagued 2025, and the offensive line remains solid. However, running back Breece Hall is headed for free agency, and the tight end and wide receiver positions lack proven talent.
The Jets’ history with offensive coordinators isn’t promising either—none have lasted more than two seasons since Brian Schottenheimer’s tenure from 2006 to 2011. Will Reich break the cycle, or will he become another footnote in the team’s struggles?
What do you think? Is Frank Reich the right choice for the Jets, or is this a risky move given his recent history? Let us know in the comments below!
Feb 4, 2026
Connections: Sports Edition
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