Rick Spielman has been instrumental in shaping the New York Jets’ leadership structure, helping the team secure a new head coach and general manager. As part of this developmental phase, he has announced his new role as senior football adviser for the Jets during a podcast on CBS Sports.
Over the past few months, Spielman, along with former Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum, assisted team owner Woody Johnson with two exhaustive searches that ultimately led to the hiring of Aaron Glenn as head coach and Darren Mougey as general manager. These appointments were made public last Monday.
On the “With The First Pick” podcast, Spielman expressed his enthusiasm about the challenges ahead, stating, “Right now, my biggest project is trying to rebuild the football operation side of things. There’s a lot of changes going on up there. I kind of feel honored and privileged that they called me to be part of it going forward.”
In his advisory role, Spielman plans to serve as a “sounding board” for both Glenn and Mougey, offering his insights and experience as they navigate their new positions. Meanwhile, Phil Savage, who previously held the advisory role and briefly stepped in as interim general manager after Joe Douglas was dismissed in November, will continue to serve as a consultant with the team.
Spielman clarified his intentions regarding the decision-making process, stating, “I don’t need to make the decisions. I don’t want to make the decisions anymore, I really don’t. I had my day in the sun, the good and the bad. What I enjoy the most is sharing experiences.”
At 62 years old, Spielman’s extensive experience includes serving as the general manager of the Minnesota Vikings from 2012 until 2021, following a six-year stint as their vice president of player personnel. Additionally, he was the general manager of the Miami Dolphins in 2004 and most recently acted as an advisor for the Washington Commanders during their general manager and coaching searches last year.
Spielman also shares a familial connection to the NFL, as he is the elder brother of Chris Spielman, a former NFL linebacker and current executive with the Detroit Lions. Interestingly, Chris was one of the 15 candidates interviewed for the Jets’ general manager position and has held the role of special assistant to the president, CEO, and chairperson for the Lions since 2021.
