The New York Jets conducted an interview with Darren Rizzi, the interim head coach of the New Orleans Saints, on Saturday as part of their search for a new head coach. This meeting marks the eighth known interview for the Jets, who are seeking to fill the position left vacant following the firing of their previous coach. In addition to Rizzi, the Jets have already spoken with several other notable candidates, including Steve Spagnuolo, Mike Locksley, Mike Vrabel, Ron Rivera, Rex Ryan, Matt Nagy, and Aaron Glenn.
Rizzi, a 54-year-old native of New Jersey, had a mixed record of 3-5 while stepping in for the Saints after Dennis Allen’s dismissal. He has a strong connection to the area, living less than 40 miles from the Jets’ training facility in Florham Park. Having previously served as the Saints’ special teams coordinator from 2019 to 2024 and as the assistant head coach since 2022, Rizzi brings significant experience. His coaching career also includes a tenure as the Miami Dolphins’ special teams coordinator and various positions at the college level, including being the head coach at both Rhode Island and New Haven.
The Jets have also expanded their search for a new general manager, interviewing a total of 13 candidates to replace Joe Douglas, who parted ways with the team in November. Among the individuals considered are Ryan Grigson of the Minnesota Vikings, Chris Spielman from Detroit, Darren Mougey of the Denver Broncos, Trey Brown from Cincinnati, and Lance Newmark of Washington. Each candidate brings a unique set of experiences and qualifications to the table as the Jets aim to revamp their leadership.
Grigson, currently in his third season with the Vikings, has played a pivotal role in constructing a team that achieved a 13-4 record last season and reached the playoffs. His previous experience includes a five-year stint as the general manager of the Indianapolis Colts, where he drafted quarterback Andrew Luck with the first overall pick in 2012. Grigson has also held positions in various NFL organizations, including the Rams, Eagles, Browns, and Seahawks.
Spielman, a former NFL linebacker known for being the leading tackler in Lions history, has been instrumental in the decision-making processes for the Detroit Lions since 2021. As special assistant to the president, he helped the team achieve a franchise-record 15 wins this past season and secure the top seed in the NFC playoffs. Notably, he is the younger brother of Rick Spielman, a former GM for the Dolphins and Vikings, who is also aiding in the Jets’ search efforts for a general manager and head coach.
Mougey has been a key figure in the Denver Broncos’ front office, serving as the assistant GM after years of various roles within the organization. His career began with the team as a scouting intern in 2012, and he previously played the backup quarterback behind current Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell at San Diego State. Brown joined the Bengals as a senior personnel executive in 2022, following a history of positions in the front offices of the Patriots and Eagles, as well as executive roles in alternative football leagues.
Lastly, Newmark, who is in his first year as the assistant GM for Washington, oversees personnel and scouting operations. He has a wealth of experience from two years with the Chargers and a long tenure of 26 years in various capacities with the Lions, including as senior director of player personnel.
In summary, the Jets are diligently working to find both a new coach and general manager, interviewing a diverse range of candidates to find the right fit for their franchise.
