The list of targets in the Jets’ ongoing head coaching search continues to grow. Commanders defensive coordinator Joe Whitt has received an interview request, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports. 
Whitt has not yet been linked to any other head coaching positions, but it comes as little surprise his time in the nation’s capital has been well received by at least one suitor. The 46-year-old coached the Cowboys’ defensive backs from 2021-23, having previously held similar roles in Green Bay and Atlanta. Once Dan Quinn vacated his position as defensive coordinator in Dallas to take over as Washington’s head coach, Whitt seemed to be the top candidate to replace him.
In the end, though, Whitt was among the players and staffers who followed Quinn to the Commanders. Despite Quinn’s experience in that capacity, Whitt has handled play-calling duties for Washington this season. The team’s run to the divisional round of the postseason has of course been driven in large part by the play of soon-to-be Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels, but the Commanders’ defense has held up well against the pass in particular.
Washington surrendered the third-fewest yards per game through the air during the regular season, although the team has not been able to duplicate that success on he ground. The Commanders finished the year 30th in the NFL against the run; in spite of that figure, however, overall placements of 18th in yards allowed and 13th in points surrendered are notable. The defensive side of the ball is likely to receive considerable attention this offseason as general manager Adam Peters looks to build off this year’s success, and Whitt would be faced with increased expectations in 2025 if he were to remain in place.
The Jets moved on from a defense-oriented head coach midway through the season by dismissing Robert Saleh. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich took over and saw his unit generally struggle down the stretch, something which could help point the team in a new direction with the upcoming HC hire. Candidates from several backgrounds are receiving consideration, though, and Whitt is the latest to join the list of names connected to New York.
Via PFR’s head coaching search tracker, here is an updated look where things stand with the Jets:
- Bill Belichick, head coach (North Carolina): Showed interest; meeting never scheduled
- Joe Brady, offensive coordinator (Bills): To interview
- Brian Flores, defensive coordinator (Vikings): To interview
- Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 1/9
- Brian Griese, quarterbacks coach (49ers): Interview requested
- Vance Joseph, defensive coordinator (Broncos): To interview 1/15
- Mike Locksley, head coach (Maryland): Interviewed 1/10
- Josh McCown, quarterbacks coach (Vikings): To interview
- Matt Nagy, offensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interviewed 1/8
- Ron Rivera, former head coach (Commanders): Interviewed
- Darren Rizzi, interim head coach (Saints): Interviewed 1/11
- Rex Ryan, former head coach (Bills): Interviewed 1/7
- Bobby Slowik, offensive coordinator (Texans): Interview requested
- Steve Spagnuolo, defensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interviewed 1/10
- Arthur Smith, offensive coordinator (Steelers): Interview requested
- Jeff Ulbrich, interim head coach (Jets): Interviewed 1/13
- Mike Vrabel, former head coach (Titans): Interviewed 1/3; hired by Patriots
- Joe Whitt, defensive coordinator (Commanders): interview requested
Interesting
They’ll never have to ask the question “would you just be here for the money?” … because “yes”
What’s the count up to…?
go look at the list at the bottom of the article and start counting, or would that be too many numbers for you to keep track of?