Frank Reich is back with the New York Jets. The franchise announced Wednesday that the 64-year-old former NFL head coach has been hired as its offensive coordinator, eight days after firing Tanner Engstrand. The move represents a critical decision by Jets head coach Aaron Glenn to address one of the league’s most dysfunctional offenses a unit that finished 29th in both scoring and total yards, making offensive improvement an organizational imperative heading into the 2026 season.
Reich’s hiring marks the Jets’ 12th different playcaller in a 16-year span, a statistic that underscores the franchise’s offensive instability. But this hire is different. Glenn is bringing in a seasoned offensive mind with extensive head coaching experience someone who’s been in big games, made critical decisions under pressure, and proven he can architect competitive offenses across different systems and personnel situations.
The choice carries particular symbolism because Reich and Glenn share an unexpected connection. Both were teammates on the 1996 Jets, a franchise-defining disaster that produced a 1-15 record the worst in team history. Reich started seven games that season as a replacement for injured Neil O’Donnell, giving him firsthand experience with Jets football at its absolute worst. Now, he’s tasked with building something far better.
“Frank has a rare combination of experience, creativity, and calm under pressure,” Glenn said in a statement. “He’s lived this game from every angle as a quarterback in this league and as a coach who’s led offenses at the highest level. He is unique in his ability to see the game for what it is right now and adapt when appropriate. Frank understands offense and how to utilize the strengths of players. I am looking forward to how he will help this team have success.”
That faith in Reich’s ability to adapt is crucial. The Jets’ offensive situation demands flexibility. They’re inheriting one of the worst offenses in professional football, with a gaping hole at quarterback, depleted offensive skill positions, and a roster that needs comprehensive rebuilding. Reich’s job isn’t to create a perfect system. It’s to maximize whatever resources are available and build a foundation for long-term improvement.
A Coaching Resume Built on Adversity
Reich’s resume is substantial, even if his recent history is messy. He was interim coach at Stanford University in 2025, finishing 4-8 before remaining with the school as a senior adviser. Before that, he was fired by the Carolina Panthers after a 1-10 start in 2023, when first overall pick Bryce Young struggled mightily as a rookie. His previous NFL stop lasted five seasons with the Indianapolis Colts (2018-22), where he compiled a respectable record and made the playoffs twice in his first three seasons.
What’s most relevant to the Jets is Reich’s experience with quarterback instability. In Indianapolis, he had five different starting quarterbacks Andrew Luck, Jacoby Brissett, Philip Rivers, Carson Wentz, and Matt Ryan. Despite constant change, he fielded three top-10 scoring offenses and evolved his scheme from a pass-heavy system under Luck to a run-reliant unit built around running back Jonathan Taylor. His offenses are known for balance, aggression, and tempo no-huddle approaches designed to keep defenses off-balance.
As an offensive coordinator, Reich spent four years in that role two with the Philadelphia Eagles (where he won a Super Bowl in 2017, though head coach Doug Pederson handled the play calling) and two with the Los Angeles Chargers. That combination of coordinator and head coaching experience positions him well to take over the Jets’ offense.
The Challenge Ahead
The Jets’ immediate priority is finding a quarterback. Justin Fields is likely a cap casualty, and Brady Cook struggled in his rookie year. The team plans to add veteran talent and potentially a rookie in the draft. Beyond quarterback, running back Breece Hall will hit free agency, creating uncertainty in the backfield.
On the positive side, wide receiver Garrett Wilson is returning after missing 10 games with a knee injury, and the offensive line returns four starters. Reich will have some established pieces to work with, even if the quarterback situation remains turbulent.
For Glenn, this hire reflects his willingness to bring in experienced leadership after firing nine assistants from his original staff. At 3-14 in his first season, Glenn is clearly on the hot seat. Reich’s hiring signals that Glenn is serious about immediate improvement on the offensive side of the ball heading into a crucial 2026 season.
