The New York Jets find themselves in a transitional phase following a disappointing 2024 season, which saw them finish with only five wins. Major changes are underway, including the hiring of Aaron Glenn as head coach and Darren Mougey as the new general manager. A significant focal point for the franchise moving forward is young cornerback Sauce Gardner, who expressed his desire to remain with the team long-term through social media. At just 24, Gardner, a two-time Pro Bowler, is eligible for an extension after an impressive season, allowing only 33 catches and just one touchdown. As the Jets navigate these changes, retaining Gardner could be pivotal in their strategy for the future.

After parting ways with GM Joe Douglas, the New York Jets have opted to bring on Darren Mougey from the Denver Broncos as their new assistant GM. His primary responsibility will be to revitalize a team that has struggled, finishing 5-12 last season and has not made the playoffs in 14 years. This offseason, the Jets hold the seventh overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, a critical opportunity to reshape the roster.

Experts suggest several potential draft picks, including cornerback Will Johnson from Michigan, who would complement Sauce Gardner well, and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona, known for his impressive catch radius. Running back Ashton Jeanty from Boise State is also highlighted as a potential addition, offering a fresh dynamic to a stagnant offense.

As the Jets embark on this new chapter under Mougey and newly appointed head coach Aaron Glenn, the focus will be on securing impactful talent that can help break the team's playoff drought.

The New York Jets are set to welcome a new defensive coordinator, finalizing a deal with Steve Wilks, the former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. Wilks, 55, has a notable coaching history, including interim head coach responsibilities with the Carolina Panthers in 2022, where he led the team to four wins in their last six games. He has also coached at the defensive coordinator level for the San Francisco 49ers, contributing to their Super Bowl run in 2023.

Wilks’ addition comes during a transitional period for the Jets. Aaron Glenn, who previously excelled as the Lions' defensive coordinator, clarified that he will not be calling the defensive plays himself. Last season, the Jets ranked 20th in points allowed but fared better in passing defense, finishing fourth overall. The Jets' defense boasts key players like Sauce Gardner, Quinnen Williams, and Will McDonald IV, providing a strong foundation for Wilks to build upon.

After a lengthy tenure with the Denver Broncos, Darren Mougey is primed to take the helm as the new general manager of the New York Jets, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter. Mougey, who began his NFL journey as a player with the Atlanta Falcons and Arizona Cardinals, transitioned to scouting in 2012. Over 13 seasons with the Broncos, he rose through the ranks to become the assistant general manager, capped off by his involvement in their Super Bowl 50 victory.

The Jets recently underwent significant changes, dismissing both their previous general manager Joe Douglas and head coach Robert Saleh amidst their ongoing struggles, which included their ninth consecutive losing season. In his new role, Mougey faces a critical decision regarding the future of Aaron Rodgers, who, despite finishing the last season strong, will be 41 by the start of 2025 and navigating a challenging injury recovery.

Mougey will need to assess the Jets' talent pool, which includes promising defensive players such as Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams, alongside offensive talents like Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall. The challenge lies in crafting a competitive roster capable of breaking the NFL's longest playoff drought.