Tannenbaum Offers Insights on Jets’ Coaching Situation
Mike Tannenbaum, former general manager of the Jets, recently shared his views on the current state of the team’s coaching with the Post. He noted his involvement last offseason when his organization, The 33rd Team, played a role in hiring coaches and GMs.
Despite the Jets’ challenging 3-14 season, during which they traded away significant players, Tannenbaum believes that the front office needs more time to assess the team’s direction. “I would give it to you. I’d rate [Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey] as incomplete,” he stated.
He appreciates their long-term vision for revitalizing the franchise, especially following a season marked by major trades. After starting 0-7, the Jets let go of their top two defensive stars, Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner.
Furthermore, the team decided to bench Justin Fields, who was signed to a two-year, $40 million deal, citing lackluster performance as the reason.
Tannenbaum remarked, “They could have potentially won four, five, or six games if they had kept Williams and Gardner. We can’t know for sure. But moving forward, they’ve positioned themselves well with cap space and draft picks.” He expressed cautious optimism about the changes expected when free agency begins.
On his role in bringing Glenn and Mougey on board, Tannenbaum mentioned that it was a detailed process and that he received exceptional feedback regarding Glenn as a candidate. “I’ve known Aaron for a long time,” he added. “He’s received endorsements from big names like Bill Parcells and Bill Belichick. This year didn’t go as planned, but no one is tougher on him than he is.”
Even with some fans advocating for Glenn’s dismissal after a tough season, the organization chose to retain him, opting not to pursue high-profile alternatives like John Harbaugh.
Tannenbaum expressed high regard for Harbaugh, noting, “Whoever gets him is getting a solid coach. He focuses on fundamentals, leads well, and brings in quality staff.”
Harbaugh has been frequently mentioned in connection with the Giants’ head coach position as several teams look for new leadership.
When asked about Harbaugh’s potential fit in New York, Tannenbaum replied, “He’s a mature individual, and New York isn’t for everyone.” This shows he recognizes the complexities of working in such a high-pressure environment.
Regarding potential coaching candidates, Tannenbaum suggested that any future coach would likely need experience with run-pass options, particularly with Dart as a projected starting quarterback.
He specifically mentioned Kliff Kingsbury, saying, “I like Cliff. He was with us on the Jets and did a great job with Jaden Daniels. He has solid knowledge about the run game.”
Looking ahead, Tannenbaum anticipates that the Raiders might opt for a notable college coach. “We might see some unexpected moves in the coaching circuit soon,” he predicted. “If a college coach comes to the NFL, Las Vegas seems like a likely destination given the potential first draft pick.”
