The worst job in professional sports just opened up. Any takers?
On Tuesday, the Jets fired general manager Joe Douglas as they continued a massive overhaul. In October, owner Woody Johnson fired former head coach Robert Saleh after a 2-3 start.
Since the Jets hired Douglas in 2019, the franchise is tied for 30th in win percentage (.319) and last in points per game (16.99), yards per game (290.1) and point differential (-636).
Arguably, Douglas’ downfall was, as NFL insider Jonathan Jones wrote, the fact that “he never figured out the quarterback position.”
He inherited Sam Darnold as his starting quarterback but was responsible for the Zach Wilson pick (No. 2 overall) in 2021. He also traded for Aaron Rodgers in 2023, which has been a massive flop.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell noted that while Douglas deserves credit for trading former safety Jamal Adams to the Seahawks in 2020 for three picks (two firsts) and a fantastic 2022 draft, led by two-time All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner and wide receiver Garrett Wilson, he leaves his successor with an ugly situation.
“Not sure this will be a very desirable job with no [quarterback], a messy cap situation and your three young stars … needing new deals,” wrote Barnwell.
Rodgers, 40, is under contract through 2025, although he could retire instead of playing next season. Neither scenario should be appealing to prospective general manager candidates.
If he plays, New York’s next front-office leader will be stuck with a quarterback who retired former guard Kyle Long described as “checked out” on Tuesday morning.
Should Rodgers retire, the Jets will need to find a quarterback, whether via the draft, free agency or trade.
Barnwell reminded that the franchise’s next general manager must negotiate contracts for Wilson, Gardner and running back Breece Hall.
The offensive line, which Douglas poured considerable resources into, also needs retooling. Rodgers has been sacked 26 times, tied for the eighth most in the league. (h/t Pro Football Focus) The unit ranks 21st in ESPN’s pass-block win rate metric and 27th in run-block win rate.
WR Davante Adams, who has 26 receptions, 278 yards and one touchdown in five games with the Jets, has a cap number of $38.3 million in 2025 and 2026.
Oh, and the next general manager must find a head coach.
Whoever Johnson hires will have their plate full. Any potential candidate should read the job description before applying.
