With Aaron Glenn’s official announcement as head coach of the New York Jets, the focus is now on how the former Detroit Lions defensive coordinator will build his new roster. According to NFL writer Tony Pauline, there are rising reports that Glenn would pursue several of his former Lions players in free agency this winter.
Aaron Glenn
Aaron Glenn Could Target Familiar Faces.
According to Pauline’s report, Glenn, who is already familiar with the Lions’ defensive squad, may seek to bring some of the guys that succeeded under his supervision to New York. Glenn is likely to be a strong advocate for these players as he creates his club in the Big Apple.
One name that stands out in Pauline’s article is linebacker Derrick Barnes. The 2021 fourth-round pick from Purdue was a vital component of the Lions’ defense, starting 13 games in 2023. Barnes’ 2024 season, however, was cut short when he sustained a major right knee injury that tore both his MCL and PCL. Despite this setback, Barnes’ potential as a strong linebacker may make him a target for Glenn, who might bring him to New York.
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What Does This Mean for the Lions
While Glenn’s poaching of players may be a challenge for the Lions, they still have a strong base of skill on which to build. Glenn’s knowledge with these guys may make them even more appealing to the Jets, but the Lions must act quickly to keep important pieces of their defensive unit.
As free agency approaches, anticipate more information on prospective transactions as Glenn reshapes the Jets’ roster with former Lions players. Whether Barnes is the first of many to follow Glenn to New York, one thing is certain: the Jets will be busy attempting to obtain components that Glenn is familiar with, while the Lions may have to deal with some familiar faces.
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