JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jets coach Aaron Glenn lightened the mood at Friday’s press conference with a quip.
“I think he’ll come back when he’s 53,” Glenn joked, in reference to Philip Rivers, who is set to return to the Colts at 44 on Sunday.
In all seriousness, the Jets could really use Glenn’s skills—he racked up 41 interceptions during his career.
Strikingly, the defense has not yet recorded a single interception this season, a shocking fact that has those associated with the team scratching their heads.
Could Sunday finally see a break in this unusual streak?
Maybe. Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence has thrown 11 interceptions this season, yet the Jets faced him with pick No. 14 last week against Tua Tagovailoa, who leads the league. They came close a few times but still couldn’t snag that elusive interception.
It’s been 13 games since the Jets last recorded a pick, establishing a dubious record for the longest start to a season without one.
The NFL’s current record is 14 games, set in 2024 by the 49ers. The Jets could very well match that feat this Sunday.
The record for the fewest interceptions in a season is only three, also held by the 49ers, this time from 2017.
There’s a worry that the continued lack of interceptions might lead players to exert themselves too much in trying to create opportunities.
“That’s a good question,” Glenn responded. “You hear a lot of noise from outside, and something like that could happen. Internally, we emphasize team cohesion and making plays. It’s unfortunate they haven’t manifested as we’d hoped. We’ve still got four games ahead, and we’re going to keep pushing, keep coaching, and eventually, we’ll get there. I believe it’ll lead to something good.”
The Jets hold a record of 3 wins and 10 losses, while the Jaguars, at 9 wins and 4 losses, sit atop the AFC South with four consecutive wins.
Interestingly, the Jets have only 15 interceptions total this season, while Jacksonville has already racked up 15. Glenn admitted he’s unsure of the Jaguars’ secret to success.
“I wish I had that answer,” he said. “They’re doing a great job… Their offensive style puts a lot of pressure on quarterbacks, which helps them create those picks.”
