The New York Jets have confirmed the significant appointment of experienced Super Bowl-winning coach Frank Reich to serve as their new offensive coordinator ahead of the pivotal 2026 NFL season.
A Strategic Return to the Professional Ranks
Reich, aged 64, makes his highly anticipated return to the National Football League after spending the previous season within the college game, where he held the position of interim head coach at Stanford University. His new role with the Jets sees him officially replace Tanner Engstrand, who was dismissed from the offensive coordinator position back in January.
Insider Reporting and Historic Reunion
The initial news of this major coaching move was first broken by renowned ESPN insider Adam Schefter. This appointment facilitates a notable reunion for Reich with current Jets head coach Aaron Glenn. The pair share a unique history, having been teammates on the Jets roster exactly three decades ago, in 1996.
Frank Reich brings a proven championship pedigree to the role. He earned a Super Bowl ring as the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles during their triumphant 2017 season. This success propelled him into head coaching positions, first with the Indianapolis Colts and subsequently with the Carolina Panthers.
Mixed Tenures in Head Coaching Roles
His time with the Colts included two playoff appearances, though both campaigns ended in defeat—first to the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2018 Divisional round, and later to the Buffalo Bills in the 2020 Wild Card round. His stint with the Panthers proved far less successful, resulting in a 1-10 record before his dismissal in November 2023. This Jets role marks his first return to the NFL since that departure.
Addressing a Team in Need of Revival
The Jets organisation is in clear and urgent need of a comprehensive offensive reboot. The team endured another deeply disappointing season in 2025, finishing with a dismal 3-14 record in Aaron Glenn's inaugural year as head coach.
In an official statement, Coach Glenn expressed considerable enthusiasm for the hire. 'Frank has a rare combination of experience, creativity, and calm under pressure,' Glenn said. 'He's lived this game from every angle, as a quarterback in this league and as a coach who's led offenses at the highest level. He is unique in his ability to see the game for what it is right now and adapt when appropriate. Frank understands offense and how to utilize the strengths of players. I am looking forward to how he will help this team have success.'
Reich's Playing Career and Connection to New York
Beyond his coaching resume, Reich also boasts a substantial 13-season career as an NFL player. He served primarily as a backup quarterback for the Buffalo Bills but did have a one-year tenure with the New York Jets in 1996, during which he started seven games. It was during this season that his path crossed with Aaron Glenn, who was a defensive back on the same roster.
This appointment represents a strategic move by the Jets, aiming to leverage Reich's extensive experience, championship insight, and historical connection to the franchise to revitalise their offensive unit and reverse the team's recent fortunes.
