What's happened
The New York Jets have replaced defensive coordinator Wilks after a poor defensive performance and a recent loss to Jacksonville. Chris Harris will take over play-calling duties, with Glenn assisting. The decision follows a season of struggles against the run and points allowed.
What's behind the headline?
The Jets' coaching shake-up signals a shift in defensive strategy amid ongoing struggles. The firing of Wilks, who was out of the NFL last season, indicates the organization’s urgency to improve a defense that has underperformed significantly. The appointment of Chris Harris as interim defensive coordinator suggests a focus on revitalizing the pass defense, which has been notably weak. This move may also reflect internal dissatisfaction with Wilks' leadership, especially given the Jets' record-setting lack of interceptions. The decision comes at a critical juncture, and Glenn’s involvement in play-calling indicates a hands-on approach to fixing the defense. If the defense fails to improve, further coaching changes are likely, and the Jets' season could be at risk of further decline.
What the papers say
AP News reports that Glenn made the decision late Sunday night after the Jets' loss, citing the defense's poor performance as the primary reason. The NY Post highlights internal dissatisfaction, noting that Wilks' defense struggled all season and that the Jets set an NFL record with no interceptions in the first 14 games. The article also discusses Glenn's recent involvement in play-calling and the appointment of Chris Harris as interim coach, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the potential for further coaching adjustments if results do not improve.
How we got here
Head coach Glenn made the decision to relieve Wilks of his duties shortly after a 48-20 loss at Jacksonville. Wilks, previously San Francisco’s defensive coordinator, was hired by Glenn in January but struggled to improve the Jets' defense, which ranked among the worst in the league against the run and points allowed. The Jets set an NFL record with no interceptions through the first 14 games of the season.
Go deeper
- What led to Wilks' dismissal specifically?
- How might Harris change the Jets' defensive strategy?
- What are the next steps for the Jets' coaching staff?
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