New York Jets offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand’s role is changing with the Jets and likely not for the better.
Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic revealed on social media that head coach Aaron Glenn has begun making phone calls to “multiple offensive assistants about the prospect of calling plays for the Jets.”
Engstrand called plays for the first time at the NFL level for the Jets during the 2025 season. Coach Glenn hasn’t made any final determinations on what Engstrand’s role will be in 2026, but “there is a feeling that it could be adjusted,” Rosenblatt explained.
AG making phone calls exploring the possibility of a new play-caller can’t be good news for Engstrand’s future.
NFL Insider Aaron Wilson was the first to share the news that Engstrand’s job responsibilities were changing on 1 Jets Drive.
More Insider Updates on Engstrand’s Role
NFL Insider Connor Hughes of SNY reiterated that “nothing has been finalized with Tanner Engstrand’s role for the 2026 season.”
However, “sources close to the Jets OC told SNY that he has expressed in recent days [that] he doesn’t anticipate calling plays this coming season.”
There have been some recent alterations to the Rooney Rule in the NFL rulebook.
NFL teams are required to interview “at least two minorities and/or women for all coordinator positions,” per the CBA .
If the Jets plan on replacing Engstrand with a new OC, they will have to follow this protocol. However, there is a potential loophole that could accelerate the process.
Hughes explained on social media that the Jets “could hire a veteran offensive consultant and have him call plays.”
If the Jets pursued that path, the Rooney Rule would be less stringent.
“Clubs must interview at least one diverse candidate for the QB coach position or any senior-level executive position at the club,” according to the CBA.
Grim Reality as Jets Search for Offensive Help
Hughes bluntly responded to a fan on social media, saying, “I really think it’s going to be hard to fill that job with anyone notable.”
The Jets have no short or long-term quarterback answer on the roster. Gang Green holds the No. 2 overall pick in a one-quarterback race 2026 NFL draft. The options available in free agency at the QB position are lackluster.
If the Jets want a decent option, they will likely have to acquire that player via trade, which will cost an asset or assets and money for that contract.
Considering that reality, the Jets may run into some trouble attempting to fill that role.
On top of the questionable quarterback situation, head coach Aaron Glenn is coming off a 3-14 campaign. There have been loud outcries on social media from fans and some media members calling for his head.
NFL Insider Aaron Wilson explained on “The Jake Asman Show” that folks around the league are surprised that Glenn is still the HC of the NYJ. There is a belief that he is a lame duck coach who is in danger of losing his job if things go south in 2026.
If that’s true, what coach is going to hitch their wagon to AG? That is the challenge for Coach Glenn this offseason.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us .
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Jets HC Aaron Glenn Making Calls to Offensive Coaches, Grim Tanner Engstrand News appeared first on Heavy Sports .