New York Jets Set To Hire Todd Bowles
By Tony Fischer
Todd Bowles was in high demand. Every team who had a head coaching opening had Bowles on their interview list based on his success with a piece meal Arizona Cardinals defense in 2014.
The Atlanta Falcons were supposed to be the first stop for Bowles on his interview tour but a last-minute change in itinerary caused a diversion the New York. This led some insiders to ask whether Bowles would keep the rest of his appointments.
Big change of plans: #AZCardinals DC Todd Bowles will now head to #NYJ first, then talk with #Falcons. Question is will #Jets let him leave?
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 13, 2015
As usual @RapSheet’s instincts were right. After hours at dinner with Jets owner Woody Johnson and newly promoted (on Tuesday) General Manager Mike MaCagnan it appears the Jets have found their next head coach.
Right now, members of #Jets brass like GM Mike Maccagnan and Woody Johnson are out to dinner with Todd Bowles. Unclear what they are eating
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 14, 2015
The #Jets are hiring Todd Bowles, source said.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 14, 2015
This will be the first opportunity for Bowles at becoming a head coach after near misses in the previous couple of offseasons. According to other tweets by Rapoport, it was Bowles’ leadership ability amidst all the injuries and adversity this season that put Bowles over the top.
It is a well-earned opportunity for Bowles who coached a schemed an undermanned Cardinals defense to one of the most respected in the NFL last season. Despite ranking in the bottom half in most categories, the defensive unit remained a strong suit for the Cardinals and a big reason why they won 11 games this season.
The Jets gain is a big loss for the Cardinals who may find it difficult to replace Bowles.