The New York Jets have made a significant change to their coaching staff following a disappointing performance against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jets’ defense, which allowed a staggering 48 points in their most recent game, has been a source of concern, prompting the dismissal of defensive coordinator Steve Wilks.
Coaching Changes After Tough Loss
Head coach Aaron Glenn announced on Monday that he had fired Wilks, a decision he made after evaluating the team’s overall performance. This decision comes just a week after the Jets allowed 34 points to the Miami Dolphins. Chris Harris, the team’s defensive backs coach, will step in as the interim defensive coordinator.
Reason for Dismissal
Glenn articulated that the decision was necessary for the team’s future. “I’m evaluating players, coaches, myself, and I just felt like this was the best decision for right now for the team and for this organization,” he stated. The head coach indicated that the defense had not shown improvement, even after expressing earlier intentions to maintain continuity through the season.
Defensive Struggles Throughout the Season
The Jets’ defensive issues have been apparent since Week 1 when they allowed 34 points to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The unit has consistently underperformed, yielding 30 or more points in six games and showing no sign of improvement. As a result, the defense is now at risk of setting an NFL record for the fewest takeaways, currently sitting at just three in 14 games.
Statistics Highlight Poor Performance
- Third-most points allowed in the NFL.
- Ranked 28th in defensive Expected Points Added (EPA).
- Ranked 29th in run defense.
- Ranked 28th in sack rate.
- 25th in red zone defense.
- Second-worst rate of completions leading to touchdowns or first downs.
Some individual players, like defensive end Will McDonald and linebacker Quincy Williams, have also faced criticism for their performances. This has contributed to a perception of overall regression within the defensive unit.
Future Outlook with Chris Harris
Chris Harris, while new to the role of defensive coordinator, has an opportunity to prove himself in the remaining three games of the season. He previously called plays during a preseason game and has been a defensive assistant since 2013. Although he has not held the title of defensive coordinator before, he has been recognized as an up-and-coming coach in the league.
As the Jets look to improve their defense, the coaching staff will need to address the challenges posed by injuries and recent trades, which have left the team with a depleted roster. Harris’s performance could determine whether he earns the position full-time as the Jets strive for a turnaround.
