Jets Poised for Shocking Shift in Tanner Engstrand’s Role as Play-Calling Future Hangs in the Balance

Heading into his sophomore campaign, Aaron Glenn’s Jets are stirring the pot more than just switching out defensive coordinators. Word on the street, courtesy of SNY’s own Connor Hughes, is that Tanner Engstrand’s future as offensive coordinator is hanging in the balance for the 2026 NFL slate. Rumblings suggest Engstrand himself might not be the one calling the plays this time around—now that’s a curveball if I’ve ever seen one. The Jets could keep him on deck, but someone else might take over the play-calling duties, or maybe they’re shopping for a fresh OC altogether—either way, it’s a chess match laced with NFL hiring rules and strategic chess moves. Meanwhile, Glenn’s already made some bold cuts on the defensive coaching staff, and curious eyes will be on Wink Martindale as he jets into New York to interview for the now-vacant DC gig. Honestly, this reshuffle could shape the Jets’ identity in ways the fans won’t soon forget. LEARN MORE

A new defensive coordinator may not be the only change for Aaron Glenn headed into his second season as Jets head coach.

Sources tell SNY’s Connor Hughes that offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand‘s role with the team has not been finalized for the upcoming 2026 NFL season. In fact, sources close to Engstrand say that he has expressed in recent days that he doesn’t anticipate calling plays this coming season.

If Glenn and the Jets wish to shift Engstrand to another role on the offensive staff, the organization could go one of two ways. Engstrand could remain the OC, but an offensive consultant would call the plays. Or, the Jets could hire a new OC.

Hughes notes that a decision has many layers, including NFL rules on such hires. If the Jets were to hire a new offensive coordinator, they’d need to go through the Rooney Rule requirements. An offensive consultant does not need to go through that process.

Of course, no final decision on Engstrand’s role has been made, but it will be another note for Glenn’s reshuffled staff.

Glenn dismissed defensive coordinator Steve Wilks after 14 games on the job. The Jets also relieved several coaches, including QB coach Charles London, DL coach Eric Washington, LB coach Aaron Curry and pass game coordinator Scott Turner.

Wink Martindale is flying to New York on Saturday and will have an in-person interview for the team’s vacant defensive coordinator job.