Jets Legends Rally Behind Aaron Glenn as Preseason Approaches

As the Jets gear up for their preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers, head coach Aaron Glenn is setting clear expectations for his squad. With the first game on the horizon, Glenn is focused on establishing benchmarks for success.

On Tuesday, a group of former Jets players from the 1990s gathered to lend their support, eager to witness the direction Glenn is steering the team.

The presence of these alumni seemed to resonate positively with Glenn and his current roster.

Ray Mickens, a former cornerback who shared the field with Glenn during his eight seasons in New York, reflected on his teammate's evolution from player to scout and now to head coach. "It's always good to see those guys. I want those guys to be part of what we're trying to build," Mickens stated. "They know exactly what it is to be a Jet. We're teaching our guys what it is. [The alums] have been through it. It's like déjà vu," he added.

Mickens emphasized that Glenn's journey to head coach exemplifies his commitment. "What it took to get there, you don't know if everybody is willing to do it. What I saw from him is someone who was willing to do anything that it took to become a head coach, and that's what gives me goosebumps," he remarked.

Glenn's experience with both struggles and triumphs during his time with the Jets has shaped his coaching philosophy. Jason Fabini, a former offensive tackle, expressed confidence in Glenn's ability to lead. "He's a brother, man. We played together. We've been through a lot, and to see him succeed is awesome," Fabini said. "He knows New York and he knows what it takes to win here."

Kevin Mawae, a Hall of Fame center who donned the Jets uniform, noted the significant growth he has observed in Glenn. "It's neat to see the growth and the maturity of where he's at, but also the passion that he has for this organization," Mawae commented. "It's one thing to be a coach somewhere else but it's another thing to coach your franchise that drafted you."

Mawae acknowledged the excitement surrounding the Jets' current trajectory, recognizing that challenges will arise but expressing faith in Glenn's leadership. "There's a pride that we had when we went to the AFC championship game when they went 1-15 and 2-14 the two previous years," he said. "It feels like we're heading in that direction again and we're excited about what lies ahead."

Regarding practice on Tuesday, Glenn noted that the defense had a strong showing. Quarterback Justin Fields displayed flashes of potential, showcasing both field vision and deep-pass capability.

The anticipation builds as the team aims to solidify their chemistry before the regular season kicks off.