Jets Shake Up Offense: Engstrand Takes Over Play-Calling – What It Means for Rodgers?
The New York Jets are entering a new era on offense. After a disappointing 7-10 season in 2024, marked by inconsistency and struggles to find a rhythm, the Jets have shaken things up, naming Tanner Engstrand as the new offensive coordinator. This move signals a significant shift in offensive philosophy and raises questions about how it will impact quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is returning after an achilles injury sidelined him for the majority of the 2024 season.
The Engstrand Era Begins
On January 31, 2025, the Jets officially announced the hiring of Tanner Engstrand, formerly the passing game coordinator for the Detroit Lions. Head Coach Aaron Glenn, making his first major move since taking the helm, tapped Engstrand to revitalize the Jets’ offense. Engstrand, 42, brings a fresh perspective and a track record of success in Detroit, where he helped orchestrate one of the league’s most potent passing attacks.
Under Engstrand’s guidance, the Lions’ passing game flourished. In 2024, Detroit finished second in the NFL in passing yards (4,718), passer rating (112.6), and yards per attempt (8.6). Their ability to convert completions into first downs was unparalleled, leading the league with a 43.9% first-down percentage. This success is a testament to Engstrand’s innovative schemes and his ability to maximize the talent at his disposal.
What Does This Mean for Aaron Rodgers?
The arrival of Tanner Engstrand presents both an opportunity and a challenge for Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers, a seasoned veteran with a Super Bowl ring and multiple MVP awards, is known for his improvisational skills and his ability to make plays at the line of scrimmage. However, the Jets’ offense under previous coordinator Nathaniel Hackett struggled to consistently capitalize on Rodgers’ strengths.
Engstrand’s system, which emphasizes pre-snap motion and West Coast principles, could provide a more structured and predictable framework for Rodgers to operate within. This could lead to better timing and rhythm between Rodgers and his receivers, as well as a more efficient running game. However, it may also require Rodgers to adapt his playing style and relinquish some of the control he’s accustomed to having.
Rodgers has publicly stated that he is open to adapting to a new system, but it remains to be seen how seamlessly he will integrate into Engstrand’s offense. The two will need to quickly establish a strong working relationship and develop a shared understanding of the offensive game plan.
A New-Look Offensive Staff
To support Engstrand, the Jets have assembled a revamped offensive coaching staff. Key additions include:
- Scott Turner: Senior Assistant/Pass Game Coordinator. Turner brings a wealth of experience, including a stint as the play-caller for the Raiders in 2024.
- Charles London: Quarterbacks Coach. London will be responsible for working directly with Aaron Rodgers and developing the team’s quarterbacks.
- Steve Heiden: Offensive Line Coach. Heiden, who spent the past two seasons with the Lions, will be tasked with improving the Jets’ offensive line, which struggled with injuries and inconsistency in 2024.
- Jeff Blasko: Tight Ends Coach. Blasko joins the Jets after four seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, where he worked with the team’s offensive line and running backs.
- Shawn Jefferson: Wide Receivers Coach. Jefferson is one of the few holdovers from the previous coaching staff, providing continuity and familiarity for the team’s wide receivers.
This infusion of new talent and experience is designed to provide Engstrand with the support he needs to implement his vision for the Jets’ offense.
The Running Game Revival
One area where the Jets desperately need to improve is their running game. In 2024, the Jets ranked near the bottom of the league in rushing yards per game. Engstrand has a proven track record of success in this area, having overseen a dominant rushing attack in Tennessee.
With a healthy Breece Hall and the addition of rookie Braelon Allen, the Jets have the potential to establish a more consistent and effective running game. Engstrand’s schemes, which emphasize physicality and creating one-on-one matchups, could be the key to unlocking the Jets’ rushing potential.
Can Engstrand Turn the Jets Around?
The hiring of Tanner Engstrand represents a bold move by the New York Jets. By bringing in a young, innovative offensive coordinator, the Jets are signaling their commitment to building a more dynamic and explosive offense.
The success of this move will depend on several factors, including:
- Aaron Rodgers’ health and adaptation to the new system.
- The offensive line’s ability to protect Rodgers and create running lanes.
- The development of the team’s young receivers.
- Engstrand’s ability to effectively call plays and make adjustments during games.
If all of these pieces fall into place, the Jets could be poised for a significant turnaround on offense. However, if they struggle to adapt to the new system, the Jets could be facing another disappointing season. Only time will tell if Engstrand is the right man to lead the Jets’ offense into the future.