New York Jets start over, hire new general manager and head coach
The New York Jets ended their 15-day search for a general manager Tuesday, hiring Houston Texans director of college scouting Mike Maccagnan -- a protégé of Jets consultant Charley Casserly.
Maccagnan, 47, will be the Jets' third GM in the past four years, replacing John Idzik, who was fired after only two seasons. Maccagnan represents the start of a new era for the Jets, who cleaned house after a 4-12 season.
Former New York Jets general manager, John Idzik was supposed to be a salary cap guru. He was so efficient at his job that he leaves $40 million in cap space for the new guy.
Mike Maccagnan comes to the New York Jets from the Houston Texans' front office. Mike brings his scouting and player personnel knowledge to the Jets. He has worked with the Washington Redskins under former general manager, Charlie Casserly. Charlie worked with Ron Wolf, former Green Bay Packers' GM in selecting the Jets new general manager.
With stints in the Canadian Football League for the Ottawa Rough Riders and with the London Monarchs in the World Football League, Mike has spent 25 years analyzing talent. His first move as general manager of the Jets was to select Arizona defensive coordinator, Todd Bowles as the new coach. This follows the same pattern of the last four selections where defense was paramount with: Al Groh, Herman Edwards, Eric Mangini and Rex Ryan.
The first move by the New York Jets' head coach, Todd Bowles was to hire offensive coordinator, Chan Gailey from the Buffalo Bills. "I'm an offensive genius... so they tell me. " There is no such thing as a surprising choice when dealing with the J-E-T-S.
The big winner in the New York Jets' front office rebuild process was Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator, Dan Quinn. With the Seahawks still active in the NFC playoffs, Quinn was unavailable due to NFL rules.
Doug Marrone should have kept collecting his $4 million salary as the Bills head coach rather than hoping for the Jets job.
Steve Serby, NYPost:
You need to be lucky, and the new head coach needs to be lucky as well. A franchise quarterback, harmony with the general manager, and a patient owner who values winning football games over selling tickets is the template.
It reminds me of the team that is hosting the AFC title game this weekend.
Paul Murphy is a freelance writer from New Hampshire.
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