Aaron Glenn Keeps Jets’ Starting Quarterback Secret
New York Jets coach Aaron Glenn declined to reveal the starting quarterback’s name on Friday, maintaining the mystery in a tense press conference. Glenn, seeking his first win, did not confirm whether the starter will be Justin Fields or Tyrod Taylor, believing this strategic decision will give the Jets a competitive advantage on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals.The coach confirmed that wide receiver Garrett Wilson (knee) and cornerback Sauce Gardner (concussion) are ruled out for the game. These players, with contracts totaling $250 million, will not travel with the team. Sources close to the team suggest that Glenn was leaning towards Taylor earlier in the week, but a knee injury has limited his participation in training. Taylor, who received a knock to the knee last Sunday, is doubtful for the match. Glenn declined to comment on whether Taylor’s injury will influence his decision, showing firmness in the face of reporters’ questions. He also avoided answering whether the starter (whoever that may be) has received the normal amount of repetitions in training, although he hinted that the team already knows the identity of the starter.“I can’t tell you that,” Glenn said when asked about the headline.
Aaron Glenn, New York Jets Coach
Taylor is one of the eight players in doubt for the match. Glenn was optimistic about Taylor’s recovery, indicating that “I really like the way these guys are progressing.” Taylor, for his part, said he hopes to be fit to play, but did not comment on his possible role. The Jets (0-7), who have gone two games without scoring a touchdown, urgently need a change. Owner Woody Johnson publicly criticized Fields, but Glenn assured that he will make the final decision and that Johnson’s opinion will not influence it. Glenn recalled a game from last season as the defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions against the Green Bay Packers, where the uncertainty about the starting quarterback made preparation difficult. Coach Matt LaFleur didn’t reveal his choice until the end of the week, and the Lions won. Meanwhile, Wilson, their primary receiver, will miss his second consecutive game. Gardner’s absence could be a big problem, especially against the Bengals’ dynamic receiving duo, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Rookie cornerback Azareye’h Thomas will make his first start in place of Gardner.“We had a great practice week with our guys. Our guys know, and we’re going to keep that between us and so it will be,” Glenn stated.
Aaron Glenn, New York Jets Coach
“Every time you lose a player of that caliber, it’s always concerning because he’s one of the best in the league,” Glenn said.
Aaron Glenn, New York Jets Coach
