NY Jets lose out on desired RB coach, but retain DL coach

On Wednesday, the Jets lost out on a top RB coach but retained a vital member of the defensive staff

The New York Jets had a busy day in the coaching world.

According to multiple reports, former Panthers coach Duce Staley has opted to take the running back coach position with the Cleveland Browns. He previously spoke with Robert Saleh and the Jets, but ultimately did not take the job in New York.

I’m told Duce Staley informed the #Jets he’s expecting to join the Cleveland #Browns, per source. pic.twitter.com/SjawWNwq6y

— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) January 24, 2024

#Browns are hiring RB Duce Staley, league source tells clevelanddotcom.

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) January 24, 2024

After the Staley news, The Athletic’s Zach Rosenblatt reported that the Jets interviewed former Titans coach Tony Dews for their running back coach opening.

The #Jets interviewed Tony Dews for their RB coach position, per source, though they haven’t offered him the job yet.

Dews was Derrick Henry’s position coach from 2018-22. Moved to TEs in 2023 when Mike Vrabel fired Keith Carter/Todd Downing and adjusted his staff.

— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) January 24, 2024

Dews served two different roles under Mike Vrabel in Tennessee. He was the running back coach from 2018-22 and the tight end coach in 2023. According to Dianna Russini, Dews was “loved by players and coaches” and would fit in with former Titans coaches Keith Carter and Todd Downing.

Tony Dews was loved by players and coaches in Tenn. He would fit in great with Carter and Downing again. Jets making moves to improve the offense. https://t.co/9KVyMxM8HQ

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) January 24, 2024

In positive coaching news for the Jets, the team reportedly signed defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton to an extension on Wednesday night. Whitecotton was a free agent after the season ended.

Source: #Jets DL coach Aaron Whitecotton agreed to a new contract about an hour ago. As we reported on Sunday, he was due to become a “free agent” at the end of the month and that the two sides were in negotiations. He’s a key member of the staff; instrumental in the development…

— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) January 24, 2024

On the Staley front, the long-time coach would have been a great addition to the Jets’ staff. With his energy and overall experience, he would have given the team the best chance to get the most out of the running back position.

Dews would not be a bad hire either, considering Derrick Henry’s emergence under his watch. However, the hiring could represent another example of the Jets favoring comfortability instead of thinking outside the box, as he has links to multiple current Jets coaches.

The retention of Whitecotton is the best development of the day, considering his importance to the defensive line. In a crucial 2024 season, the Jets will need to make sure that they get the most out of all of the unit, especially with Will McDonald most likely stepping into a starting role. With Whitecotton still in the fold, that job looks much easier.

There is a long offseason ahead of the Jets, especially considering their aspirations for 2024. As a result, the organization needs to not only improve the roster but solidify the coaching staff as well.

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