Jets Hire Darren Mougey as GM Amid Major Overhaul \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ The New York Jets have hired Darren Mougey, formerly the Denver Broncos assistant general manager, as their new GM. Mougey, 39, joins first-time head coach Aaron Glenn to revamp the franchise after a disappointing 5-12 season. Together, they face major decisions, including the futures of quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver Davante Adams, as the Jets seek to end a 14-year playoff drought.
Darren Mougey Joins Jets as General Manager: Quick Looks
- New Leadership: Mougey pairs with new head coach Aaron Glenn to lead the Jets.
- Broncos Background: Mougey served as assistant GM in Denver, helping end their playoff drought.
- Key Decisions Ahead: The futures of Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams loom large.
- Playoff Drought: Jets aim to end their NFL-long 14-year playoff absence.
- Roster Management: Key free agents and potential extensions for young stars are priorities.
Deep Look
The New York Jets are entering a new era with the hiring of Darren Mougey as their general manager, a move that concludes a lengthy search for fresh leadership. Mougey, 39, arrives from the Denver Broncos, where he served as assistant general manager and helped assemble a playoff-caliber roster. Teaming up with first-time head coach Aaron Glenn, Mougey is tasked with reshaping the Jets and addressing critical roster questions as the franchise strives to end its 14-year playoff drought, the longest active streak in the NFL.
Mougey’s Journey to the Jets
Darren Mougey’s ascent to the Jets’ GM role marks another milestone in a remarkable career that began as a scouting intern with the Denver Broncos in 2012. A former quarterback and wide receiver at San Diego State, Mougey quickly climbed the ranks within Denver’s organization, earning positions such as director of player personnel and, eventually, assistant GM under George Paton.
During his tenure in Denver, Mougey contributed to the team’s Super Bowl-winning roster in 2015 and played a key role in assembling the 2023 roster that returned the Broncos to the playoffs under head coach Sean Payton. However, his tenure also included the controversial Russell Wilson trade, which has since been criticized as one of the most lopsided deals in recent NFL history.
Mougey emerged as the Jets’ top choice after a rigorous search involving interviews with 15 candidates, including Washington assistant GM Lance Newmark and Cincinnati executive Trey Brown. The Jets ultimately chose Mougey for his proven track record and collaborative leadership style.
Partnering with Aaron Glenn
The Jets’ new leadership team also includes Aaron Glenn, a former Jets cornerback and first-time head coach. Glenn, 51, brings extensive coaching experience, most recently as defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. Together, Mougey and Glenn are expected to bring fresh energy and direction to a franchise seeking to rebuild its identity.
The duo faces a daunting task: transforming a team that finished 5-12 last season into a playoff contender. Key decisions on player personnel and coaching strategies will define their tenure as they attempt to revitalize the Jets’ fortunes.
The Aaron Rodgers Dilemma
One of Mougey’s immediate challenges is determining the future of quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The 41-year-old four-time MVP has one year of nonguaranteed money left on his contract, along with a $35 million option bonus due before the season starts.
Rodgers, who joined the Jets in a blockbuster trade last year, would count $23.5 million against the salary cap if retained. However, if he retires or is released, the team could face a $49 million dead-money charge unless they designate him as a post-June 1 cut to spread the cost over two years.
Wide receiver Davante Adams, another high-profile player linked to Rodgers, also presents a major decision. Scheduled to earn $35.64 million annually for the next two years, Adams could be asked to restructure his deal or face release. Adams has hinted that his future with the Jets may depend on Rodgers’ decision.
Key Roster Challenges
Mougey and Glenn must navigate several other roster challenges, including a host of impending free agents. Notable players like linebacker Jamien Sherwood, cornerback D.J. Reed, safety Chuck Clark, and tight end Tyler Conklin are set to hit the market. The Jets must also address contracts for cornerstone players eligible for extensions, including cornerback Sauce Gardner, wide receiver Garrett Wilson, and running back Breece Hall.
Adding to their task is the need to solidify the offensive line, where right tackle Morgan Moses and left tackle Tyron Smith are key pieces whose futures remain uncertain. Edge rusher Jermaine Johnson and other young talents represent the team’s future, but they’ll need support from experienced veterans.
Revamping the Jets’ Identity
The Jets’ search for a new GM and head coach began last November, led by owner Woody Johnson in collaboration with The 33rd Team, a football consulting group. The process was exhaustive, with assistance from former Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum and veteran executive Rick Spielman.
Spielman’s connections with Mougey’s former boss, George Paton, provided valuable insights during the vetting process. Ultimately, Mougey’s background in roster building and his ability to collaborate with coaches and executives set him apart from the other candidates.
Looking Ahead
The hiring of Darren Mougey signals a new chapter for the Jets, who are determined to break their 14-year playoff drought and build a competitive team for the future. While the challenges are immense, Mougey’s experience in Denver and his partnership with Aaron Glenn provide a foundation for optimism.
The Jets’ success will hinge on their ability to make critical decisions about their roster, navigate salary cap complexities, and create a winning culture. With key players like Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams in limbo and young stars waiting for extensions, the stakes are high.
Mougey and Glenn have an opportunity to reshape the Jets’ trajectory, but their success will ultimately be measured by their ability to deliver consistent playoff appearances and, eventually, championship contention.
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