Harrison Phillips pulls back the curtain on Aaron Glenn taking over Jets defense

Things are going to be different with the New York Jets in 2026. They were one of the league's worst units in 2025, ranking 30th in defensive efficiency according to Sumer Sports' EPA/play.

Former defensive coordinator Steve Wilks is out, in is Brian Duker, with head coach Aaron Glenn calling the plays. With some new talent in tow, the defense should be much improved; otherwise, it could cost this current regime its jobs.

But what exactly will be different about the Jets' defense in 2026? We'll likely see some more 3-4 looks throughout the season. That's primarily what Glenn ran with the Detroit Lions as their defensive coordinator.

Jets defensive tackle Harrison Phillips says they're still working through some things, considering it's still early in the offseason, but he has faith in Glenn and the identity he'll bring to the defense.

Harrison Phillips on Aaron Glenn's play calling and his role in new Jets defense

Speaking with ESPN's Rich Cimini at the United Way New York City Gridiron Gala, Phillips was fairly open about the defensive changeover the Jets are facing this offseason.

"I'm not sure how it's all going to get divvied up, but I do know the new install has been super exciting. And there's been a lot of talk about allowing players to fit the position that's best for their skill instead of, like, calling a play and putting players in those positions, if that makes sense. And so I'm excited to see how they view people's skill sets and things."

Harrison Phillips

Phillips' initial comments sound a bit like an indictment of the former defensive coordinator, Wilks. He may have been trying to force players into roles on his defense that didn't necessarily fit.

Maybe that's why he and Quincy Williams didn't get a long all season.

Regardless, Phillips will play a key role on the Jets' defensive line in 2026 and figures to have a good chance of being a defensive captain thanks to his leadership skills. He's even taking the onus on himself to learn every possible role he could be playing.

"I'm learning all five positions up front so that I can bring up other people's IQ, help other guys when I'm out there. If I wind up at the one and someone's at the five, I better be able to know what he's doing. If I'm at the five and now I'm going to move to the three, I want to be able to do everything so I can help everybody bring the whole IQ of the room up."

Harrison Phillips

There's a lot to be excited about with the Jets heading into next season, and the defensive changes should be one of them.

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