Report: Aaron Glenn Could Target Key Lions Free Agents to Bolster Jets’ Defense,” reveals a source familiar with the Jets’ plans, although details remain…..see more

Report: Aaron Glenn Could Target Key Lions Free Agents to Bolster Jets’ Defense,” reveals a source familiar with the Jets’ plans, although details remain…..see more

As the NFL offseason heats up, one of the more intriguing coaching moves is Aaron Glenn’s potential shift to a new challenge with the New York Jets. Glenn, the highly respected defensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions, has been a key part of their defensive resurgence in recent years. His expertise in building a defense that’s both aggressive and opportunistic has not gone unnoticed around the league. Now, with rumors swirling that Glenn could be on his way to the Jets, many are wondering if he could bring some of his trusted Lions free agents along with him.

While nothing is official yet, the Jets’ interest in Glenn and the Lions’ upcoming free agency period could create a unique opportunity for Glenn to reshape the Jets’ defense by potentially pulling from the talent he helped develop in Detroit. Let’s take a look at a few key free agents from the Lions who could follow Glenn to the Big Apple, and how their addition could benefit the Jets.

1. Alex Anzalone – Linebacker

One of the top names to watch in terms of potential movement is linebacker Alex Anzalone. The former New Orleans Saint has been a reliable, steady presence for the Lions since joining the team in 2021. Under Glenn’s tutelage, Anzalone thrived, recording over 100 tackles in each of his last two seasons with Detroit and proving to be a key leader in the middle of the defense.

Anzalone’s versatility as a linebacker, capable of covering both the run and pass, would make him a valuable asset for the Jets. With the Jets’ defense needing some depth at linebacker to complement stars like C.J. Mosley, Anzalone could step in and provide the stability and leadership that would mesh well with the Jets’ defensive schemes. His familiarity with Glenn’s system would allow him to integrate quickly into a new defense while bringing a veteran presence to a relatively young linebacker corps in New York.

Though the Lions may try to re-sign Anzalone, he could see a potential reunion with Glenn as a chance to elevate his career even further. If Glenn does indeed join the Jets, Anzalone would likely be one of the first free agents he pushes for, as his style of play would fit perfectly into the Jets’ defensive system.

2. John Cominsky – Defensive Lineman

Another player who could be on Glenn’s radar if he moves to the Jets is defensive lineman John Cominsky. Cominsky, who was brought to the Lions via free agency in 2022, has been a key contributor on Detroit’s defensive line. Known for his high motor and versatility, Cominsky has shown the ability to rush the passer while also being effective against the run. In his two years with the Lions, he has quietly become a valuable piece of their defensive rotation, offering both depth and consistent play.

For the Jets, a team that prides itself on its defensive line play, adding someone like Cominsky would be a smart move. The Jets already have a star-studded defensive line featuring Quinnen Williams and Carl Lawson, but they lack a true rotational depth player who can provide energy and stability. Cominsky would fit this role well, offering Glenn a player who can not only contribute in a rotation but also give the defense added flexibility with his ability to play multiple positions along the line.

Cominsky’s familiarity with Glenn’s system would allow him to hit the ground running if he moves to the Jets, and his blue-collar mentality would fit right in with the team’s overall culture. Given his potential for a solid payday in free agency, the Jets could be an attractive landing spot, especially if Glenn leads the charge.

3. Will Harris – Safety

Will Harris is another name that could be on the Jets’ radar should Aaron Glenn make the move. Harris, a versatile safety who has played multiple roles in Detroit’s secondary, has developed into a dependable piece under Glenn’s defensive schemes. Harris’s ability to play both safety spots, as well as his contributions on special teams, have made him a valuable asset to the Lions.

The Jets, who have had their own struggles with consistency in the secondary, could find Harris’s versatility and experience useful. As the team looks to improve their pass defense and ensure they have reliable depth behind their star cornerbacks, Harris could provide a stabilizing presence. His familiarity with Glenn’s defensive calls and his ability to play multiple positions in the secondary would allow him to be a flexible piece in New York’s defense.

While Harris isn’t necessarily a star player, his ability to fill multiple roles could make him a valuable commodity on the Jets’ roster. If Glenn does decide to pursue him, Harris could see the move as an opportunity to continue playing in a defensive system that has helped him grow. The Jets’ defense would likely benefit from his depth and reliability.

4. Amani Oruwariye – Cornerback

Cornerback Amani Oruwariye is another free agent who might find his way to the Jets if Aaron Glenn gets his way. Oruwariye, who has shown flashes of brilliance during his time with the Lions, had an up-and-down season in 2023 but remains a talented and rangy cornerback. His ability to play both man and zone coverage, combined with his size (6-foot-2), gives him the potential to be a shutdown corner when given the proper coaching and system.

For the Jets, Oruwariye would represent an upgrade in terms of depth at cornerback. With a secondary that features a star in Sauce Gardner, adding someone with Oruwariye’s talent would allow the Jets to further strengthen their coverage unit. The cornerback could be a perfect complement to the more physical cornerbacks already in place in New York, and Glenn’s familiarity with Oruwariye’s strengths could make him a valuable asset to the Jets’ secondary.

Although Oruwariye has faced his own challenges in Detroit, Glenn’s coaching could help him rediscover his potential. A move to New York could provide Oruwariye with the opportunity to contribute to one of the league’s top defenses.

5. Jared Goff – Quarterback (Long Shot)

Finally, while this may seem like a long shot, the potential for Aaron Glenn to bring along his trusted quarterback, Jared Goff, cannot be completely ruled out. Goff, who has been with the Lions since 2021, has proven to be an efficient and capable quarterback under Glenn’s guidance. Although the Jets have Zach Wilson, who they hope can develop into their long-term quarterback, there is still uncertainty about Wilson’s future.

The idea of Goff joining the Jets is far-fetched given his success in Detroit and the Jets’ focus on developing Wilson, but if Glenn sees Goff as a key to New York’s future, he could make a push for his former quarterback. Goff, with his experience in Glenn’s system, could provide immediate stability at the quarterback position while allowing the Jets to continue developing Wilson in a backup role.

However, this would likely only be a consideration if the Jets are truly dissatisfied with Wilson’s progression. Still, if Glenn gets his way, bringing in Goff could be part of the equation for revamping the Jets’ offense.

Conclusion

As Aaron Glenn considers his future with the Jets, it’s clear that his relationship with certain players from the Detroit Lions could play a pivotal role in the team’s plans moving forward. While some of these free agents may be long shots to leave Detroit, others like Anzalone, Cominsky, and Harris could see a reunion with Glenn as an opportunity to take the next step in their careers. If Glenn can convince the Jets’ front office to target these players, the additions could make a real difference in a defense that’s looking to return to elite status. For Jets fans, this offseason could offer a new, exciting chapter filled with the possibility of impactful changes to their team’s defensive identity.