The Jets are expected to separate with coach Adam Gase on Sunday after Sunday against the Patriots, according to sources, who are embarking on a search that the entire NFL world believed was inevitable.
Among the candidates expected to be considered are Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bienemy, Colts defense coordinator Matt Eberflus, Ravens defense coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale, Titans attacking coordinator Arthur Smith and Rams defense coordinator Brandon Coordinator Brandon university coaches like Matt from Iowa State. Camp Harling, Michigan, Jim Harbaugh and Dan Mullen, Florida, for everyone in between.
Expect a long and thorough search.
Gase has a 9-22 record over two seasons, including two consecutive wins after an 0-13 start amid a string of injuries and other problems this season. The new coach and general manager Joe Douglas – who is not going anywhere – will choose the number 2. The decision whether to stick with 23-year-old Sam Darnold or choose a QB at the second overall will be a collaborative decision that will include the coach’s thoughts.
Gase would probably be fired after last week’s game if the Jets lost, which would give them a head start on their search. Instead, the Jets suffered a second consecutive upset – beating the Browns 23-16, one week after beating the Rams 23-20 in Los Angeles – which ended the No. 1 pick for the Jaguars.
Bienemy, 51, has had several head coach interviews over the past few cycles and has received strong support from Chiefs coach Andy Reid, among others. Eberflus (50) is widely respected for how hard and disciplined his teams play. Martindale, 57, had a strong interview last year over the Giants post that went to Joe Judge. Smith (38) is expected to be one of the most popular candidates in this cycle and is likely to play for every job. Staley, 38, is another exciting player who excelled in his first year as a leader in the Rams defense.
Jets owner Woody Johnson – still the U.S. ambassador to the UK and not with the team – has long been interested in Harbaugh, 57, who is investigating a possible return to the NFL through intermediaries. However, according to sources, Harbaugh’s name is not currently considered the leading brand.
Before the Gets were hired two years ago, the Jets made a request to interview Campbell, 41. He remains a potential target for NFL teams, although it is unclear how willing he is to take such a step. Mullen, 48, has a strong record of quarterback development, including Alex Smith in Utah, Dak Prescott in Mississippi State and Kyle Trask in Florida.