The New York Jets, a professional American football team based in the New York metropolitan area, have a storied history that intertwines with the legacy of its head coaches. Since its inception in 1960 as a member of the American Football League (AFL), the Jets have experienced numerous triumphs and challenges, shaped significantly by the leadership of their head coaches. This article will explore the history of head coaches for the NY Jets, examining key figures, their tenures, coaching styles, and the impact they had on the franchise.
Early Years: The AFL Era (1960-1969)
The Jets began their journey in the AFL, and their first head coach was Sammy Baugh. However, his tenure was brief, as the team struggled to establish a solid identity.
Key Coaches in the AFL Era
1. Sammy Baugh (1960)
- Baugh, a Hall of Fame quarterback, was a legendary figure in football. Unfortunately, his coaching career with the Jets was short-lived, ending after just one season. His inability to find success led the team to seek a fresh direction.
2. Walt Michaels (1977-1982)
- Michaels became the team’s head coach after a successful stint as a defensive coordinator. Under his leadership, the Jets made it to the playoffs multiple times, including an appearance in the 1982 AFC Championship Game.
The Super Bowl Victory and Aftermath (1969-1980)
The Jets' most significant achievement came in 1969 when they won Super Bowl III under the leadership of Weeb Ewbank. Ewbank was a transformative figure for the franchise, and his experience proved invaluable.
Weeb Ewbank (1963-1973)
- Tenure: 1963-1973
- Achievements:
- Led the Jets to their first and only Super Bowl victory in 1969.
- Established a winning culture that remained influential even after his departure.
Ewbank’s success was largely attributed to his ability to connect with players, particularly the flamboyant quarterback Joe Namath, whose charisma helped elevate the team’s profile.
Struggles and Rebuilding (1980-1990)
Following Ewbank, the Jets faced a challenging period characterized by inconsistent performance and frequent coaching changes.
Notable Coaches During this Period
1. Charlie Winner (1974-1975)
- Winner's tenure was marred by a lack of success, leading to his dismissal after two seasons.
2. Mike McCormack (1975-1976)
- Known for his defensive acumen, McCormack was unable to turn the franchise’s fortunes around.
3. Joe Walton (1983-1989)
- Walton, a former player and assistant coach, provided stability but struggled to achieve playoff success, despite a few competitive seasons.
4. Rich Kotite (1995-1996)
- Kotite is often remembered for his disappointing record, with a particularly low point being a 1-15 season in 1996.
The Parcells Era and Return to Prominence (1997-1999)
The hiring of Bill Parcells marked a turning point for the Jets. Parcells brought a winning mindset and transformed the culture of the team.
Bill Parcells (1997-1999)
- Tenure: 1997-1999
- Achievements:
- Led the Jets to the playoffs in 1998 and an AFC Championship Game appearance.
- Known for his strong leadership and ability to develop young talent.
Parcells’ impact was profound, as he implemented a disciplined approach that revitalized the franchise.
The 2000s: A Mixed Bag of Success and Turmoil
The Jets experienced a series of coaching changes in the early 2000s, with varying degrees of success.
Key Coaches in the 2000s
1. Al Groh (2000-2001)
- Groh’s tenure was brief, and he was dismissed after two seasons, despite showing promise.
2. Herman Edwards (2001-2005)
- Edwards brought energy to the team and led them to the playoffs in 2004. His motivational style resonated with players, making him a fan favorite.
3. Eric Mangini (2006-2008)
- Hired from the New England Patriots as a young, innovative coach, Mangini initially found success, leading the Jets to the playoffs in 2006. However, his tenure ended due to a decline in performance.
The Rex Ryan Era: Defensive Dominance (2009-2014)
One of the most memorable periods in Jets history was under head coach Rex Ryan, known for his brash personality and defensive schemes.
Rex Ryan (2009-2014)
- Tenure: 2009-2014
- Achievements:
- Two consecutive AFC Championship Game appearances in 2009 and 2010.
- Known for building a formidable defense and fostering a strong team culture.
Ryan’s tenure was characterized by a tough, defensive-minded approach, and his ability to motivate players made him a beloved figure among Jets fans.
The Search for Consistency (2015-Present)
The Jets have continued to search for stability and success, cycling through multiple head coaches in recent years.
Recent Coaches
1. Todd Bowles (2015-2018)
- Bowles, a former defensive coordinator, struggled to achieve consistent success, leading to his dismissal after four seasons.
2. Adam Gase (2019-2020)
- Gase’s tenure was marked by controversy and disappointment, as the team failed to meet expectations during his leadership.
3. Robert Saleh (2021-Present)
- Hired as a fresh face with a defensive background, Saleh aims to rebuild the Jets into a competitive team. His leadership and vision have instilled hope among fans for a brighter future.
Conclusion
The history of head coaches for the NY Jets reflects the complexities and challenges of professional football. From the early successes under Weeb Ewbank to the modern-day aspirations with Robert Saleh, each coach has left an indelible mark on the franchise. The Jets have experienced highs and lows, but the common thread has been the pursuit of excellence and the hope of returning to championship glory. As the franchise continues to evolve, the legacy of its head coaches will remain a crucial part of its narrative. The journey forward promises to be as exciting as the history behind them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current head coach of the New York Jets?
As of October 2023, the current head coach of the New York Jets is Robert Saleh.
How many head coaches have the New York Jets had since their inception?
The New York Jets have had a total of 19 head coaches since their inception in 1960.
Which Jets head coach has the most wins in franchise history?
The head coach with the most wins in New York Jets history is Walt Michaels, who led the team from 1977 to 1982.
Who was the first head coach of the New York Jets?
The first head coach of the New York Jets was Sammy Baugh, who coached the team in their inaugural season in 1960.
Which Jets head coach led the team to its only Super Bowl victory?
Weeb Ewbank was the head coach who led the New York Jets to their only Super Bowl victory in Super Bowl III.
What notable success did Rex Ryan achieve as head coach of the Jets?
Rex Ryan led the Jets to back-to-back AFC Championship games in the 2009 and 2010 seasons.
Who was the head coach of the Jets before Robert Saleh?
Adam Gase was the head coach of the New York Jets before Robert Saleh, serving from 2019 to 2020.
What year did the Jets hire Bill Parcells as head coach?
The Jets hired Bill Parcells as head coach in 1997.
Which Jets head coach had a brief but impactful tenure in 2015?
Todd Bowles had a brief but impactful tenure as head coach in 2015, leading the team to a 10-6 record.
What is the significance of the Jets' coaching history in the context of the NFL?
The Jets' coaching history reflects the team's struggles and successes, showcasing a mix of innovative strategies and challenges in a highly competitive NFL landscape.
