NFL
Jets Accused of ‘Something Fishy’ With Their Hiring Process: Insider
Jets Accused of ‘Something Fishy’ With Their Hiring Process: Insider
New York Jets owner Woody Johnson introducing head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey.
The New York Jets hired a new head coach and general manager this offseason.
Three of the GM candidates who lost out to Darren Mougey suggested “something fishy” happened, according to ESPN’s Rich Cimini.
“[Rick] Spielman’s hiring, and his overall role in the selection process, didn’t sit well with some of the GM candidates who lost out to Mougey. Three of them pointed out to ESPN the connection between Spielman, Mougey, and current Denver Broncos GM George Paton,” Cimini revealed.
Spielman sat in on all of the HC and GM interviews for the Jets as part of The 33rd Team which was hired by the Jets “in a support role to help identify and vet candidates in addition to coordinate interviews.”
Broncos GM George Paton “is a Spielman protege” Cimini revealed after working at his side “for several years with the [Minnesota] Vikings.”
“Paton gave a strong endorsement for Mougey, his assistant GM in Denver. In turn, Mougey hired Spielman. From the team’s perspective, the objective was to give Mougey — a first-time GM — an experienced and compatible person to lean on,” Cimini added.
More Details on Accusations Against the Jets Hiring Process
“I can tell you this when the Jets hired Rick Spielman as their senior football advisor within 10 minutes I got two texts from candidates who interviewed for the GM job asking is this true? Is Rick Spielman really the senior football advisor? Now we all know Rick Spielman participated with Mike Tannenbaum in the interviews for the head coach and GM jobs. They did the consulting [and] vetting of candidates as part of The 33rd Team. There were rumblings throughout the process that Spielman might end up with a permanent job with the Jets. There were even rumors that Mike Tannenbaum could end up with the team on a permanent basis. So it turns out it is Spielman who gets the job,” Cimini said on the “Flight Deck” podcast.
The Jets officially announced the Spielman hiring on Tuesday, February 11.
“Now you know the background, Spielman and Denver GM George Paton were together for many years in Minnesota. Paton was Spielman’s right hand man. Paton goes to Denver. Mougey comes from Denver. Mougey gets the job in New York. Spielman gets a strong recommendation on Mougey from Paton and Spielman gets hired by Mougey. So you can see like how this is working here and that is how it goes sometimes – not only in the NFL but all businesses. Sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know,” Cimini explained.
Mougey, 39, is the third youngest general manager in the National Football League. The only two GMs who are younger are Andrew Berry, 37, of the Cleveland Browns, and Ryan Poles, 39, of the Chicago Bears. Mougey is a few months older than Poles.
With Mougey not having any experience in the GM chair the Jets wanted to surround him with veteran voices.
Spielman explained that he will be a “sounding board” for Mougey and Glenn but the final decision-making will rest with those two individuals.
Cimini explained that they wanted one of the voices around Mougey to be someone he’d be “compatible” with – which connects back to Paton-Spielman from their time together in Minnesota.
Sounds Like Sour Grapes Is Root of Jets Accusations
The Jets interviewed 31 combined candidates for their vacant HC and GM gigs according to the team. Specifically, there were 15 general manager candidates and 16 head coaching candidates.
By all measures, it was an exhaustive search and the Jets entered the process with a very open mind with no one candidate in mind for either position.
If someone wants to accuse someone of “something fishy” look at a different team in the AFC East.
The New England Patriots interviewed four people for their HC vacancy, per Jordy McElroy of Patriots Wire. Two of the candidates were the required minorities to fulfill the Rooney Rule and the other two candidates were Mike Vrabel and Ben Johnson.
The two minority candidates, Byron Leftwich and Pep Hamilton, have been out of the league since 2022. NFL Insider Albert Breer accused the Patriots of performing “sham” interviews just to check off the Rooney Rule box.
“I don’t argue with the blueprint. I think the end result [the Jets] got what they wanted. They got an experienced former GM to help out and be a sounding board for the first-time GM,” Cimini said. “I’m good with that. I do have some questions on how they arrived at that point but look if they’re compatible and they make good decisions then it’s a positive for the Jets.”
Despite Cimini’s understanding, he revealed that “at least” three of the Jets’ GM candidates who didn’t get the job openly asked, “What the hell is happening here? This is an inside job. Again that could be a vocal minority but the Jets ended up with I think a good structure. Now we just have to see if the people within that structure can work together well.”
NFL
BREAKING News: Dolphins have reportedly made final decision on Tyreek Hill and potential trade to Chiefs or Saints
BREAKING News: Dolphins have reportedly made final decision on Tyreek Hill and potential trade to Chiefs or Saints
The Miami Dolphins have been involved in many rumors about Tyreek Hill’s future with Chiefs and Steelers as possible suitors.
The Miami Dolphins have decided that, for now, they are not going to trade Tyreek Hill. According to a report from Adam Schefter, the wide receiver will not be moved and, despite the rumors, the Kansas City Chiefs and the Pittsburgh Steelers are not on the list of supposed interested teams.
There’s been a lot of Tyreek Hill chatter and a lot of Tyreek Hill speculation. I know it will keep going on and on. Let’s not let facts interfere with a good story. The facts are, the Dolphins haven’t gotten any calls about Tyreek Hill. Zero. The facts are that the Dolphins are not looking to deal Tyreek Hill.”
After the Dolphins were blown out in Indianapolis, and with the frustration Hill has expressed toward the team since last season, many rumors suggested that the wide receiver could be traded to acquire draft capital. Obviously, his talent could turn any team into a Super Bowl contender, but it’s also a fact that the player is currently facing serious off-the-field legal issues.
Is Tyreek Hill going to be traded?
No. Tyreek Hill will not be traded by the Miami Dolphins for now. However, Schefter mentioned that, as often happens, if the losses keep piling up, the story could change soon.
Now, look, we’re not idiots. We understand the Dolphins lost last week in an embarrassing fashion. They think they’re gonna turn it around. But if they don’t, obviously, there may be calls for Tyreek Hill as the trade deadline approaches in late October, early November. But as of today, today, zero, zero discussion about a Tyreek Hill trade, today. Could that change? Sure, absolutely. When teams lose, that changes the conversation and things are always fluid. But Tyreek Hill today? Nothing.”
NFL
SHOCKING: Fans react as Aaron Rodgers beats Jets in Steelers debut despite Justin Fields’ impressive performance
SHOCKING: Fans react as Aaron Rodgers beats Jets in Steelers debut despite Justin Fields’ impressive performance
The New York Jets and the Pittsburgh Steelers delivered one of the best games of Week 1 of the NFL season. The battle between Justin Fields and Aaron Rodgers was great, and it left fans in awe.
No one thought the New York Jets and the Pittsburgh Steelers would deliver the first shootout of the NFL season but here we are! Justin Fields guided the Jets to a great offensive game, but Aaron Rodgers didn’t fall behind as he had a stellar game of his own. Fans are reacting after what was a surprisingly great game.
After a rollercoaster of a game, it’s normal that fans are going into complete ecstasy -and agony- on social media. User Tone Digs simply said, “Having Aaron Rodgers as your QB is so cool.” Others joke around saying, “Aaron Rodgers once again responsible for another Jets loss,” only this time it’s because Rodgers delivered a masterpiece against his former team, where he struggled.
Comparing Rodgers’ game to what he did, or failed to do with the Jets last season was absolutely imperative to happen. That’s how social media works. “Aaron Rodgers with a better drive than he ever had with the Jets, followed by Justin Fields with a better throw than he ever had with the Steelers,” user Bart Winkler posted.
Justin Fields did everything he could to win the game for the Jets
Fields was also facing his former team. He has been doubted most of his NFL career, so watching him play to this high level of football made fans happy. “Love seeing Justin Fields balling out,” Dave tweeted. Others are defending Fields, saying he finally has a coaching staff that trusts him. “Justin Fields with a coach that doesn’t treat him like s— >>>>.“
Even NFL legend Richard Sherman was in awe of Fields’ performance. “Justin Fields!!! Looks like an Entirely different player!Poised, accurate, and decisive. Using his legs when it’s there and finding the open guy consistently. Remarkable.“
The QBs gave it all on the field
The box score alone doesn’t do justice on what the quarterbacks did. And that’s saying something as the box score stats are really impressive on both sides. Aaron Rodgers completed 22/30 passes for 244 yards and four touchdowns. He also guided a drive all the way for Chris Boswell to kick a 60-yard field goal to take the lead.
Fields’ impact has to be measured differently, given the nature of his dual-threat ability. Fields had 266 total yards and also three touchdowns. He scored two using his legs and one pass to Ohio State product Garrett Wilson.
NFL
NFL News: Aaron Rodgers sends clear and emotional message to Mike Tomlin and Steelers after epic win in Week 1 against Justin Fields and Jets
NFL News: Aaron Rodgers sends clear and emotional message to Mike Tomlin and Steelers after epic win in Week 1 against Justin Fields and Jets
Aaron Rodgers was on the verge of tears after the Pittsburgh Steelers pulled off an incredible victory against the New York Jets.
Aaron Rodgers had a spectacular debut with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He threw for 244 yards, 4 touchdowns, and led an epic 34-32 victory against the New York Jets. During a postgame interview with CBS, the veteran quarterback appeared visibly emotional.
“I love these guys. I love the organization. I love them taking a chance on bringing me in and and believing in me. Give me the opportunity to be out here with my guys. There’s no greater feeling than being on the field and being able to compete. That’s what I was thinking about all those days in the offseason. Opportunities like this. I didn’t think it will be against my former team. I’m really proud of our guys making clutch plays down the stretch.”
Despite being 41 years old, Rodgers proved he can turn the Steelers into Super Bowl contenders. However, the big challenge for Mike Tomlin will be improving a defense that was overwhelmed by the Jets’ running game.
Did the Steelers win today against the Jets?
Yes. The Pittsburgh Steelers won their first game of the 2025 season on the road against the New York Jets. It was a thrilling matchup that was decided in the final seconds with a 60-yard field goal by Chris Boswell with just over a minute left on the clock.
Then, when Justin Fields and the Jets were attempting a late winning drive, Jalen Ramsey made a crucial tackle on fourth down to secure the victory. Two of the stars who arrived in the offseason, Rodgers and Ramsey, shut the door in New York.
Four Saints veterans named the best players to wear their jersey numbers
The New Orleans Saints have a lot of questions surrounding their roster as they enter the 2025 season, but there are a handful of veterans who have proven to still be among the best in the NFL.
Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports recently released a list of the top players in the league at every jersey number from 0-99. There were four Saints players included: Alvin Kamara for No. 41, Demario Davis for No. 56, Juwan Johnson for No. 83 and Carl Granderson for No. 96.
Kamara doesn’t have very much competition for being representative of the No. 41 jersey. Other players there include Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Ko Kieft and Dallas Cowboys rookie defender Donovan Ezeiruaku. Even if there were other stars, it would be hard to finish ahead of Kamara, who could once again be one of the NFL’s best running backs this season.
The other players at No. 56 that stand out other than Davis are Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith and Indianapolis Colts guard Quenton Nelson, both of whom are very good at football. Davis has finished with at least 100 tackles each year since coming to New Orleans and has earned the NFL’s respect as one of the best linebackers in the sport.
Johnson is still waiting for his true breakout campaign at tight end for the Saints, but he has shown flashes. Still, he is the right choice for No. 83, which is mostly several unproven tight ends and wide receivers.
There are a couple of other defensive linemen who share No. 96 with Granderson, but the only one with a real argument would maybe be New York Jets star Leonard Taylor III. Granderson will need to bring his sack numbers back up in 2025, but he still probably the right choice.
INCOMING: Kellen Moore Embarks On New Era For New Orleans Saints With Hopes Of Resurrecting Glory Day
Kellen Moore embarks on new era for New Orleans Saints with hopes of resurrecting glory days
The New Orleans Saints find themselves standing at the crossroads of hope and opportunity as they gear up for the 2024 season, following a disappointing campaign that concluded with a 5-12 record. The franchise has embraced the winds of change with the hiring of head coach Kellen Moore, signaling a commitment to rejuvenation. This offseason has been bustling with transformative moves that may well pave the way for a more promising future.
The current roster reflects a thoughtful blend of experienced veterans and eager newcomers, providing a strong foundation for growth. Talented additions like Tyler Shough and Kelvin Banks Jr. inject youthful dynamism into the squad, creating an environment ripe for progress. Despite the setbacks of the previous season, the NFC South remains relatively accessible, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the only team boasting a winning record at 10-7. This landscape opens a window of opportunity for the Saints to reestablish their competitive edge in the division.
With an emphasis on health and stability, the Saints stand a genuine chance to approach .500 this season. The progress of key players, particularly quarterbacks like Shough and Spencer Rattler, will be vital as they aim to bridge the competitive gap with Tampa Bay.
A Need for Defensive Reinforcements
To enhance their prospects further, strengthening the defense—particularly the secondary—should be a priority. The cornerback position has emerged as a critical area for improvement, leading to speculation surrounding the potential signing of veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore. His addition could inject both talent and leadership into a young and developing defense.
Gilmore, a two-time All-Pro and the 2019 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, has shown signs of decline recently but remains a force to be reckoned with. In his last season with the Minnesota Vikings, he recorded nine pass breakups, 49 tackles, and one interception, showcasing his enduring capability. His extensive experience in high-stakes situations, underscored by a Super Bowl victory and five Pro Bowl selections, positions him as a significant asset for any franchise.
The Right Fit for a New Scheme
Under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, the Saints will implement a hybrid defensive scheme mirroring the system in which Gilmore thrived during his time with the New England Patriots. This familiarity could facilitate a seamless transition for Gilmore, allowing him to maximize his contribution to the field.
Gilmore has also expressed a keen interest in mentoring younger players, which makes him an attractive candidate for a cornerback room eager for guidance. His presence would not only enhance the Saints’ defensive unit but also nurture the development of emerging talents like Alontae Taylor, ideally positioned for a slot role.
Bringing a player of Gilmore’s pedigree on board would markedly elevate the Saints’ defensive prowess, addressing one of the most vulnerable positions on the roster. As the team looks ahead to the upcoming season, the potential acquisition of a seasoned cornerback like Gilmore could serve as the crucial missing piece in their quest for supremacy within the NFC South. United by veteran experience and youthful zeal, the Saints are laying the groundwork for a season filled with potential and aspirations for greatness.
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