The New York Jets are making significant moves as they seek to revamp their organization following the firing of general manager Joe Douglas. On Monday, they officially kicked off their search for his replacement by interviewing former Atlanta Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff. This marks the first known candidate to step forward for the GM role vacated after Douglas’s less-than-stellar tenure, which saw New York finish with only 30 wins and six seasons without any playoff appearances.
Dimitroff’s connection to the NFL runs deep, with nearly three decades of experience under his belt. He served as the Falcons’ general manager from 2008 until halfway through the 2020 season, during which he crafted a solid roster leading to considerable achievements, including six playoff appearances and a Super Bowl run. One of his crowning moments was drafting quarterback Matt Ryan with the No. 3 overall pick during his inaugural draft with Atlanta, who went on to claim the NFL MVP award and set multiple franchise records.
The Jets’ leadership, particularly owner Woody Johnson, is determined to make thoughtful choices as they move forward. Johnson has hired The 33rd Team, founded by former Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum, to assist with the entire hiring process, searching for not just a GM, but also for the right head coach. With Phil Savage currently filling the role of interim general manager, the organization is taking its time to vet candidates carefully.
One of the notable highlights of Dimitroff’s career at the Falcons was orchestrated during the 2011 NFL draft when he orchestrated a monumental trade with the Cleveland Browns to snag wide receiver Julio Jones with the No. 6 pick. Considered one of the best receivers of his generation, Jones eventually became the franchise’s all-time leader for catches and receiving yards. This bold move helped the Falcons stay competitive during Dimitroff’s tenure, securing multiple playoff berths and NFC South titles.
Even with these achievements, Dimitroff's tenure did encounter its share of bumps. Following another season without playoff success, both he and head coach Dan Quinn were let go after the Falcons’ dismal start to the 2020 season. This marked the end of Dimitroff’s direct involvement with the NFL for some time, but he didn’t stay idle; he helped create SumerSports, a data-driven organization aimed at improving player acquisition and roster management. This experience may prove invaluable for the Jets as they continue to search for innovative strategies to turn their fortunes around.
While Dimitroff is the first candidate to interview, he isn’t the only name on the Jets' list. Reports indicate they will also speak with former Tennessee Titans GM Jon Robinson and Louis Riddick, currently serving as an ESPN analyst and having played within the NFL. The Jets are focused on identifying experienced individuals who can provide the leadership necessary to revive the franchise.
The Jets, currently sitting with a disheartening 4-10 record, have faced challenges on the field, not least of which is the struggle to find consistent success since their last playoff win, which occurred over a decade ago, back in 2010. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers' signing generated much buzz, yet the team has grappled with injuries and performance under pressure this season, causing more questions about the future of their roster, particularly around the quarterback position.
Looking back, Dimitroff’s accolades include being named NFL Executive of the Year not once but twice, alluding to his aptitude for building competitive teams. His expertise from successful playoff runs, including the 2016 Super Bowl experience against the New England Patriots, could provide the Jets with the guidance they desperately need to reshape their direction.
Meanwhile, as the hiring discussions progress, interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich is also working to hold the team together on the field. He voiced concerns about key injuries impacting player performance heading down the stretch, reflecting the dual challenges the team is aiming to rectify—both on the field and within the front office.
With Dimitroff’s interview marking the start of the Jets’ pivotal search, fans of the franchise remain hopeful for positive changes aimed at reversing the lengthy streak of disappointments. The new leadership could usher in fresh ideas and strategies needed to guide the team back toward contention, breaking free from the frustrating losing cycles they’ve endured over the past several years.
