The New York Jets are 3-11, and after a Week 15 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, where the Jets' defense allowed a career day for Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars, something needed to change.
Despite Aaron Glenn downplaying any changes after the game, the next day, Glenn made a major decision with his team's defense in his rookie year as a head coach.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Jets and Glenn have fired defensive coordinator Steve Wilks. The former Carolina Panthers coach lasted just one year with the Jets, and things have come to a close for Wilks in New York.
Jets' Aaron Glenn fires DC Steve Wilks after rough Week 15 outing
Rapoport reported that the Jets have fired Wilks from their defensive coordinator spot following the team's blowout loss at the hands of the Jaguars in Week 15.
A 48-20 loss to the Jets was the end of Wilks' tenure in New York. The Jets have been one of the worst defensive units in the NFL this season, and it's only gotten worse after Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner were traded at the NFL trade deadline.
Even with a few key departures, the Jets' defense has still played well below expectations this season. Glenn knew a change needed to be made after a 48-point performance allowed by the Jaguars, and a change was indeed made.
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This 48-point loss to the Jaguars was the final straw, but it's been a struggle all year. Their 337.4 yards allowed per game and 28.4 points allowed per game are some of the worst marks in the NFL.
But one of the more damning statistics for the Jets' defense this year has been the severe lack of turnovers forced. They've gotten a few fumbles, but the defense, through 14 weeks, has yet to force an interception.
Change was needed in New York, even if it came too late in the season to have any significant meaning. But, with the final three weeks left, defensive backs coach Chris Harris will fill in as the new defensive coordinator for Glenn's defense in 2025.
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