The New York Jets have yet to hire a defensive coordinator this offseason, a decision Aaron Glenn will have to make in the near future. While Glenn’s decision will have an impact on the roster, it remains uncertain where he wants to go and whether he’ll let the new DC call plays.
The Jets are coming off a season in which the defense was probably the worst in football. If this doesn’t get fixed in the near future, the Jets simply won’t be close to the team they’re looking to be.
And according to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, there’s a familiar name for New York sports fans that the Jets are considering, and it’s Wink Martindale.
“Probably Martindale, who has seven years of coordinator experience with the Broncos, Baltimore Ravens and New York Giants. He presided over top-tier units with the Ravens (2018 to 2021).
“His defense was good enough to help the 2022 Giants advance to the divisional round of the playoffs, although their defensive EPA (Expected Points Added) was only 28th. (In fact, Martindale hasn't fielded a top-10 unit in EPA since 2020.) He reportedly had a falling out with then-coach Brian Daboll, leading to his departure after the 2023 season,” he wrote.
Martindale would bring experience to a staff that includes a newer head coach, something Glenn should be seeking. He’s been through playoff runs, high-pressure situations and years of managing above-average talent.
At his peak in Baltimore, Martindale’s defenses were aggressive and considered ne of the top in the NFL.
During his time with the Giants, it’s fair to say that Martindale wasn’t as great some were hoping for. Still, context matters. The Giants lacked elite talent during much of Martindale’s time, and if he had the chance to coach a lot of this new defense, he’d probably succeed.
For the Jets, the fit is intriguing. This roster already has some talent, but it can use a lot of help during the draft on the defensive side of the football. Some are starting to believe that the Jets will go with a defensive player with the No. 2 overall pick.
If Glenn wants a veteran voice to pair with his leadership and someone who’s been in the coordinator chair before, Martindale could be the man.