Jets defensive leader makes clear where locker room stands after Steve Wilks firing

New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn made the decision to part ways with defensive coordinator Steve Wilks on Monday in a move that many deemed to be both justified and necessary.

The Jets' defense had significantly underachieved in 2025, and the unit had become wholly uncompetitive in recent weeks. With reports surfacing that players were openly criticizing Wilks in the locker room, it's increasingly apparent that a change was needed.

Still, it’s never easy to move on from a prominent coach, especially one in his first year under a new regime with just three games remaining. In situations like this, it’s fair to wonder how such a move might impact the locker room.

The good news for Jets fans is that it seems Glenn still has the overwhelming support of his players. Jets defensive tackle Harrison Phillips told reporters on Monday that he has full trust in Glenn and his vision, even after Wilks' premature departure.

It's nice to see such a strong sign of support from a respected locker room leader like Phillips, and his mentality will likely go a long way with his teammates.

"I trust the man at the helm. It's a difficult thing because Coach Wilks is a great coach and a great person. It comes down on all of us."

Harrison Phillips backs Aaron Glenn after Steve Wilks firing

The Wilks decision likely wasn't an easy one for Glenn, but it's a move that ultimately had to be made. The Jets had become wholly uncompetitive on defense, allowing 34 and 48 points in consecutive weeks to the Miami Dolphins and Jacksonville Jaguars, respectively.

The unit ranks 30th in EPA per play allowed and, remarkably, still hasn’t recorded an interception through 15 weeks. It’s now officially the longest interception drought in NFL history.

The Jets have just three takeaways — one of which was a muffed punt — this season with just three games to play. The NFL record for fewest in a season is currently seven, previously set by the 2018 San Francisco 49ers.

But the reasoning extends beyond the embarrassing numbers. Players had begun to quit on Wilks, and it had become increasingly apparent in recent weeks.

SNY's Connor Hughes reported Monday evening that several Jets defensive players had "grown increasingly frustrated" with Wilks as the season progressed, with many criticizing their coach's vanilla and rigid scheme.

All of this is to say that Glenn made the right choice, even if it may have ruffled a few feathers. If Phillips’ comments and Hughes’ reporting are any indication, he still has the full support of the locker room, and many players likely agree with the decision.

For now, the message inside the building seems to be clear. Jets players wholeheartedly support their head coach.