Jets’ Plans for 2026
The Jets have a strategy in place, aiming for a turnaround in 2026.
This sentiment was conveyed by Jets general manager Darren Mousey and head coach Aaron Glenn during their season wrap-up press conference on Monday.
Following a rough 3-14 season mark in their inaugural year, both leaders pledged to improve next year’s performance. “I really believe we can be competitive and respectable right away next year,” Mousey expressed. Glenn chimed in, mentioning, “I don’t expect to repeat this season.”
Much of their discussion centered on a broader “vision” and strategic “plans.” It’s obvious the Jets are gearing up to offer hope this offseason—a much-needed sentiment given the lack of positives from the previous season.
Mousey and Glenn have around $100 million in salary cap space and enter the offseason equipped with four picks in the first two rounds, most notably the No. 2 overall pick, not to mention several potential building blocks already on the team.
They acknowledged that their rookie season came with a learning curve that should serve them well going forward. “As a new head coach and general manager, it’s crucial to experience the first year to really grasp the entire situation,” Glenn said, adding that he recognizes areas for personal improvement.
It’s been 15 long years since the Jets last made it to the playoffs, and they haven’t won in a decade. This year, they kicked off the season with seven straight losses and then ended with another five losses in a row. They even set a dubious record, becoming the first team in NFL history to finish a season off with five consecutive losses by 23 points or more. Additionally, they ended the season without a single interception, which is an unfortunate milestone.
You might assume a season like this would rattle the confidence of the management, but that’s not the case for Mousey. “I feel more confident moving forward today than ever before,” he said.
Both were brought on board by Jets owner Woody Johnson a year ago and indicated their mutual trust in each other, as well as in Johnson. “I’ve been here for a year. I’ve learned a lot. I have a clear vision,” Mousey remarked. “The AG and I discuss the roster and our vision daily. Given our resources, including draft picks and cap space, I’m optimistic about adding great players to our team in the future.”
The primary focus now is finding a quarterback. The Jets are anticipated to select a quarterback, with Oregon’s Dante Moore seen as a likely No. 2 overall draft pick. They might also look at other players, either through signing a veteran free agent or making a trade.
Mousey stated, “We will explore all options—free agency, the league, and obviously the draft. We will evaluate and identify a solution that suits the New York Jets.”
However, their first attempt at addressing the quarterback issue—signing Justin Fields with $30 million guaranteed—didn’t pan out. Fields struggled and was benched in November. While the Jets are poised to release him this offseason, there’s been no official comment on that front, with Glenn only saying that Fields remains under contract.
Glenn reiterated his accountability for this year’s performance. “We have to improve because we dedicated so much to winning. I’m not going to blame the roster or the coaching staff. I’m going to hold the players responsible who are in front of me. We need to do better, and I’ll keep saying that. Until we manage the situation effectively, we will strive for improvement, and I believe that will happen next year.”
