Jets Explore Adding Frank Reich as Offensive Architect Under Aaron Glenn

The New York Jets’ offseason overhaul on offense may not be finished. According to SNY Jets insider Connor Hughes, momentum is building between the franchise and veteran coach Frank Reich as head coach Aaron Glenn continues to reshape his coaching staff ahead of the 2026 campaign.

Hughes shared the update on social media, writing that talks between the Jets and Reich are progressing and that the team is actively trying to finalize a deal. While no agreement has been announced, the report immediately drew attention across the league given Reich’s extensive coaching résumé.

The potential addition comes after a dismal 2025 season in which the Jets finished 3–14 and ranked near the bottom of the NFL in most offensive categories. With a new quarterback likely to take over in 2026, New York is searching for stability and direction on that side of the ball.

Reich’s name carries weight in league circles, both for his success as an offensive coordinator and his experience as a head coach. His possible arrival would mark a significant step in Glenn’s effort to bring structure, credibility, and clarity to a unit that has struggled for years.

1. A Proven Offensive Mind

Reich’s appeal begins with his Super Bowl-winning tenure in Philadelphia. He served as offensive coordinator for the Eagles during the 2016 and 2017 seasons, culminating in a championship run, even though head coach Doug Pederson handled play-calling duties. That stretch established Reich as one of the league’s respected offensive architects. His system helped unlock quarterback Nick Foles during the Eagles’ playoff run, one of the most memorable postseason performances in NFL history. After Philadelphia, Reich returned to Indianapolis for a second stint, this time as head coach of the Colts from 2018 to 2022. He guided the franchise to two playoff appearances and oversaw productive seasons from quarterbacks such as Andrew Luck, Philip Rivers, and Carson Wentz. Although his tenure ended unevenly, Reich’s body of work remains substantial. His short and difficult stint with the Carolina Panthers in 2023 added a blemish, but it did little to erase his reputation as a quarterback developer and offensive strategist.

2. How the Jets’ Staff Could Change

Despite the buzz around Reich, the Jets do not appear ready to part ways with offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand. Hughes clarified that Engstrand is expected to remain with the team, though his role could be dramatically altered. According to sources close to Engstrand, he does not expect to call plays in 2026, even if he retains the offensive coordinator title. If Reich joins the staff, he is widely expected to take over play-calling responsibilities. That arrangement would represent a notable shift in authority within the offensive staff. It would also reflect Glenn’s willingness to prioritize experience and proven leadership over maintaining traditional job titles. For Engstrand, the change could provide an opportunity to focus on broader organizational duties, player development, or schematic input without the weekly pressure of game-day play-calling.

3. A Signal of Urgency and Direction

The Jets’ interest in Reich underscores how urgently the franchise is seeking answers on offense. A 3–14 season, paired with years of inconsistency at quarterback, has left little patience among fans or decision-makers. Reich’s track record developing quarterbacks is one of his strongest selling points. His work with Andrew Luck in Indianapolis and Nick Foles in Philadelphia remains a major reason teams continue to view him as a valuable offensive mind. With a new quarterback likely under center in 2026, the Jets appear intent on surrounding that player with experienced guidance. Reich’s presence could bring stability, structure, and a clear offensive identity that has long eluded New York. More broadly, the move would signal Glenn’s strategic approach as a first-time head coach: lean on seasoned voices, clarify internal roles, and take deliberate steps to turn the page on years of offensive frustration.