The New York Jets have officially begun a new chapter by parting ways with general manager Joe Douglas, as confirmed by the team after an initial report by SNY’s Connor Hughes. Owner Woody Johnson expressed gratitude for Douglas’s six-year commitment to the franchise and has appointed Phil Savage as the interim general manager for the remainder of the season. The Jets are actively searching for a permanent replacement.
Douglas’s tenure was marred by disappointing performance, with the team compiling a record of 30-64 since he took over in June 2019. This decision comes on the heels of the dismissal of head coach Robert Saleh just over a month ago, yet the team’s situation under interim coach Jeff Ulbrich has not improved. Currently, the Jets hold a 3-8 record for the season, having suffered seven losses in their last eight games, despite high hopes surrounding 40-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Having previously served as the Philadelphia Eagles’ vice president of player personnel, Douglas inherited the challenges of working with head coach Adam Gase and quarterback Sam Darnold. After a lackluster start with records of 7-9 and 2-14, he utilized a draft strategy that allowed for the selection of talent such as Sauce Gardner, Garrett Wilson, and Breece Hall, laying a foundation for future potential. However, the franchise’s struggles to find stability at the quarterback position ultimately hindered their progress.
The Jets’ ongoing turmoil in both team management and performance has extended their postseason drought to 14 years, with no clear path ahead. The future of Rodgers, who will turn 41 in December, remains uncertain as the franchise moves forward in their search for a new head coach and general manager.
While the Jets are currently facing significant challenges, this clean slate presents an opportunity for renewal. With a commitment to reshaping the organization, fans can hope that the team will emerge stronger and more competitive in the coming seasons.
In summary, the Jets are taking decisive measures to reforge their identity after years of struggle, aiming to build a brighter future with fresh leadership and possibly a more stable quarterback situation.