The New York Jets have hired a familiar face to help with their general manager and head coaching search, despite firing the same executive years ago. The team has brought in former GM Mike Tannenbaum and his consulting group, The 33rd Team, to identify and vet candidates for the two high-level positions.
Tannenbaum was the Jets’ GM from 2006 to 2012 and oversaw the team’s roster during their last trip to the playoffs. He was responsible for drafting several key players, including Darrelle Revis, Nick Mangold, and D’Brickashaw Ferguson. However, his 15-year tenure with the team ended after the team missed the playoffs for the second straight season in 2012.
Tannenbaum will be working alongside former Vikings GM Rick Spielman, who had a say in picking a GM and coach last season for the Washington Commanders. The Commanders have gotten off to a strong start this season, currently in the playoff hunt in the NFC.
The 33rd Team will provide studies on best hiring practices, data analysis, and other resources to help the Jets make informed decisions. Jets owner Woody Johnson will oversee the search, which has already begun.
The decision to bring back Tannenbaum has raised some eyebrows, with some questioning why the team would hire someone they fired over a decade ago. However, Tannenbaum has experience working with Jets owner Woody Johnson and has a deep understanding of what Johnson is looking for in a GM and coach.
Some fans have even suggested that the team should “get the band back together” by hiring Rex Ryan as head coach, who previously worked with Tannenbaum during his time as GM. Ryan has hinted that he has “some unfinished business” with the franchise.
The Jets have hired three GMs since Tannenbaum’s departure, all of whom were unable to lead the team to a playoff appearance. The team is looking to break their drought this season, and bringing back Tannenbaum in a consulting role could help them make informed decisions in their search for a new GM and coach.
