Former Lions LB Alex Anzalone reveals why Jets fans should believe in Aaron Glenn

New York Jets fans are down on Aaron Glenn, and understandably so. He's coming off a dreadful first season at the helm, and didn't help himself with some head-scratching coaching decisions and battles with the media at the podium.

But what can't be denied is the affinity some of his former players have for him. It's what drew veteran linebacker Demario Davis and defensive lineman David Onyemata to the Jets in free agency.

Former Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone was a name linked to the Jets before the start of free agency thanks to his ties to Glenn. The two reportedly had a close relationship throughout their time in Detroit.

Anzalone ended up signing a two-year, $17 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers instead, but that doesn't change the fact that he has the utmost respect for his former defensive coordinator.

Alex Anzalone tells Jets fans what makes Aaron Glenn a great coach

In an interview with NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Anzalone was asked why Jets fans should have hope that Glenn is the guy who can spearhead the rebuild in New York.

"You know, obviously, I'm very close with him. He's been through a tough situation there, and it's similar to how Detroit was, and that turnaround, it took a few years to do. So they have a leader of men, and they have a guy that is serious about football and truly cares about his players, and he's the guy that can get it done and turn it around."

Alex Anzalone

Morale is low right now in Jets world, and it certainly feels like they have a lame-duck head coach in their ranks. But there is reason to be optimistic about a Year 2 jump for Glenn. For starters, a lot of his former players have come out in defense of him, like New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara.

It seems he's learned from some of his mistakes as a rookie coach. Glenn hasn't had as many media appearances thus far in 2026, but he has been noticeably less standoffish with reporters.

He's also planning on taking his fate into his own hands, taking control of defensive playcalling as opposed to handing the responsibility off to Steve Wilks like he did last year. If the Jets struggle again in 2026, it will fall directly on his shoulders.

If Jets fans want a reason to believe in Glenn, take it from the former players who have faith in his ability to be a leader of men. If not, your mind was probably made up in the first place anyway.