The NY Jets will scour the market in search of their next head coach over the coming weeks and months, and although there are still three games remaining in the 2024 season, the team has already reportedly identified its top target.
SNY's Connor Hughes reported on Tuesday that former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel is the candidate the Jets "covet the most." Hughes later stated that the Jets have already "put out feelers to gauge interest" if Vrabel would be interested in their organization.
Vrabel is widely expected to be one of the most coveted head coach candidates this offseason. The Jets will likely have some serious competition, but it's becoming increasingly apparent that they're prepared to make a push to land the former NFL coach.
The Jets have already begun their formal interview process for prospective general manager candidates. Former Titans GM Jon Robinson, who worked with Vrabel in Tennessee, is among those names.
NY Jets eyeing Mike Vrabel as their next head coach
A former NFL linebacker, Vrabel spent a few years working as an assistant at Ohio State and with the Houston Texans before he was hired as the Titans head coach in 2018. He amassed a record of 54-45 as Titans head coach, which included four consecutive winning seasons to start his career.
Vrabel guided the Titans to the AFC Championship Game in 2019 and back-to-back AFC South titles in the following seasons. After being dismissed by Tennessee in January, he spent the 2024 season contributing as a consultant for the Cleveland Browns.
The former Texans defensive coordinator has established himself as a respected leader of men, earning praise for his ability to inspire teams and foster a winning culture. His reputation as a motivator has made him one of the most sought-after names in coaching circles.
That reputation is precisely why Woody Johnson and the Jets are so intrigued. The team is in search of a CEO-style head coach who can overhaul the organization’s culture, and Vrabel perfectly embodies that vision.
Vrabel's proven ability to appeal to players and build a winning mentality aligns with the Jets' goal for a cultural reset. His leadership could be the steadying force the organization desperately needs after years of dysfunction and instability.
He's certainly a popular choice among Jets fans, many of whom have also identified Vrabel as their top target. It seems the Jets agree with that sentiment.
There will be no shortage of prospective suitors for Vrabel in the coming weeks, but the Jets are in a position to make a compelling case, especially if they grant him influence over the general manager hire.
The Jets want Mike Vrabel. Now, we wait to see if the feeling is mutual.