Few coaches in the NFL have the kind of experience that New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn has.
As a former Pro Bowl cornerback turned scout turned defensive coordinator, Glenn has seen success being built in many different ways. He may have more of a defensive mindset, but he knows how to be a leader of men.
It's a key trait for any head coach, let alone one coaching the Jets.
So far in Glenn's first offseason program, he has passed every test with flying colors. He has eliminated distractions (yes, that means you, Aaron Rodgers), brought in talented coaches, and has developed a strong base of respect with his players. ...
Even ones that just signed this offseason.
One of those players is quarterback Justin Fields. After another OTA practice on Thursday, the former Chicago Bears and Pittsburgh Steelers QB explained how special Glenn is as a leader.
"First off, I think he's one of the realest coaches I've ever played for. He's not going to beat around the bush. He's going to tell you what it is," Fields said. "Like yesterday, he didn't like the energy of the practice. He didn't like our practice, and after practice, he told us straight up how he felt."
That is no guarantee for success in New York, of course. But "realness'' is a start.
Few coaches have the kind of characteristics and leadership Glenn has. It's a reason why, for the first time in a long time, the Jets feel like they are building something legit.
It may not happen right away, but New York has confidence in a direction again. And it's mainly because of Glenn.