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The New York Jets hired one of their own – former cornerback Aaron Glenn – to become the team’s next head coach.

Glenn played his first eight seasons with the Jets and later worked as a scout in the personnel department. He would then begin his professional coaching journey.

Over the last four seasons, Glenn has served as the defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions – generating a lot of buzz as a top head coaching candidate.

Meanwhile the Jets are coming off a very disappointing 5-12 season where they had sky-high, even Super Bowl expectations with a returning Aaron Rodgers. Those did not materialize and led to the in-season firings of former head coach Robert Saleh as well as general manager Joe Douglas.

Jets Chairman Woody Johnson, supported by The 33rd Team, then led an exhaustive search for a new head coach. That effort landed on the former Jets first-round pick (No. 12 overall out of Texas A&M in 1994).

Glenn played in 121 games for the Jets. During that time, he registered 24 interceptions (fourth in team history) and two Pro Bowl selections (1997, 1998).

Welcome home

In a story announcing the hiring on the Jets website, Johnson said he is excited to welcome Glenn home as the head coach of the Jets.

“Aaron earned this opportunity through almost three decades of NFL experience – 10 with us as a player and a scout,” said Johnson. “He brings tremendous leadership skills and the vision this organization needs to be successful. I am thrilled to see him lead this team.”

Welcome home, Coach! ✈️ pic.twitter.com/NwXJMM9Zfa

— New York Jets (@nyjets) January 23, 2025

Glenn said the Jets represent a special place for him.

“From the time I was drafted and practiced on Long Island, to the time I came back as a scout in New Jersey, this organization has always felt like home,” said Glenn. “I’m thankful to Mr. Johnson for this opportunity. To our players, prepare to be coached with everything we have. That is our responsibility. I ask that we share the same vision and that’s working towards winning a championship. To our fans, simply put, expect a winning team that you will be proud of.”

Glenn is slated to sign his contract Jan. 23 at Jets headquarters in Florham Park.

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