Jets make unexpected moves in their search for a new head coach and GM, with major interviews scheduled

The New York Jets are actively seeking leadership changes, with recent interviews conducted for both their head coaching and general manager vacancies. On Thursday, the team met with former Washington and Carolina coach Ron Rivera, marking the first known head coaching candidate to meet with the Jets. Additionally, the team spoke with ESPN analyst and former NFL safety Louis Riddick for their GM role, making him the fourth candidate for the position.

Ron Rivera: A Proven Head Coach with Playoff Experience

Ron Rivera, who turns 63 years old next Tuesday, has a career that spans decades, both as a player and as a coach. During his four-year tenure with the Washington Commanders, Rivera posted a record of 26-40-1 and led the team to the playoffs in his first season (2020). Despite being fired after a 4-13 season in 2024, Rivera’s leadership abilities are still recognized across the league.

Notably, Rivera is the only NFL coach in history to have led teams with losing records to the playoffs twice: once with the Carolina Panthers (7-8-1) in 2014 and again with Washington (7-9) in 2020. Rivera’s playoff experience is impressive, having guided the Panthers to seven postseason appearances during his time in Carolina (2011-2019). His pinnacle came during the 2015 season, when the Panthers went 15-1 in the regular season and reached the Super Bowl, although they lost to the Seattle Seahawks.

Rivera’s leadership on the field earned him the nickname “Riverboat Ron” due to his bold decision-making. With a career record of 102-103-2, he is well-respected for his ability to motivate and guide teams through challenging circumstances.

In addition to his coaching career, Rivera has a background as a player. As a linebacker for the Chicago Bears, Rivera was part of the legendary team that won the Super Bowl in the 1985 season. He played in 137 games and was a key part of the Bears’ dominant “46” defense under head coach Mike Ditka and defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan.

Louis Riddick: A Fresh Perspective for GM

Alongside Rivera, the Jets are also considering Louis Riddick for the team’s general manager role. Riddick, a former NFL safety, joined ESPN in 2013 and has become a well-known analyst for both NFL and college football on ABC and the ESPN Network.

Before his broadcasting career, Riddick gained valuable front-office experience with both the Washington Football Team and Philadelphia Eagles, making him a strong candidate to reshape the Jets’ roster. He has previously interviewed for GM roles with the Detroit Lions and Houston Texans during the 2020 offseason.

As a player, Riddick had a solid career, earning 155 tackles and two sacks over six seasons in the NFL. He played for the Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns, and Oakland Raiders after being selected in the ninth round of the 1991 NFL Draft. Riddick’s experience both on and off the field gives him a well-rounded perspective, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to revamp its operations.

Jets’ Recent Struggles and Leadership Shakeups

The Jets have had a tumultuous season, resulting in major changes. On October 7, they fired coach Robert Saleh, and under interim coach Jeff Ulbrich, the team has posted a disappointing 2-9 record. Additionally, the Jets made another significant move when they fired Joe Douglas in November, creating an opening for the GM position.

As part of the search for a new head coach, former Jets coach Rex Ryan is also expected to interview with the team. Ryan, who previously led the Jets to the AFC Championship game in back-to-back seasons (2009-2010), could be brought back in hopes of reviving the team’s fortunes.

Other GM Candidates

The Jets have cast a wide net for their GM search. In addition to Riddick, they have also interviewed Jim Nagy, the Senior Bowl executive director, and former NFL GMs Thomas Dimitroff (former Atlanta Falcons GM) and Jon Robinson (former Tennessee Titans GM). The team’s leadership is clearly looking for fresh ideas to reverse their current trajectory and build a competitive roster moving forward.

Riddick’s Potential Impact on the Jets

If selected as the Jets’ general manager, Louis Riddick could bring a unique perspective to the team. His background in analyzing talent and his experience in front-office roles would allow him to make informed decisions when it comes to roster construction and player acquisitions. Riddick’s sharp football insight, combined with his time spent working with both successful and rebuilding organizations, could help shape a promising future for the Jets.

The New York Jets are at a crucial juncture in their organizational history. With the team in search of both a new head coach and general manager, the recent interviews with Ron Rivera and Louis Riddick are just the beginning. Whether the Jets opt for the proven leadership of Rivera or the fresh perspective of Riddick, the next steps they take could determine the direction of the franchise for years to come. Only time will tell which candidate will ultimately take charge of this storied franchise.