The New York Jets have opened their 2025 training camp at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center in Florham Park, marking the beginning of a new era under head coach Aaron Glenn. With fresh leadership, a new quarterback in Justin Fields, and renewed hope, the Jets are looking to end their 14-year playoff drought.
Glenn, the former Jets Pro Bowl cornerback who played for the team from 1994 to 2001, couldn’t hide his excitement on the first day of camp. “I woke up around 3:30 this morning,” Glenn said. His wife had texted him at 2:30 a.m. with simple advice: “Just be AG.”
The 53-year-old coach brings a unique perspective to the organization, having experienced success as a player with the team and most recently serving as the Detroit Lions’ defensive coordinator. His message to the long-suffering Jets fanbase was clear and heartfelt.
“Listen, I know the pain, I know all the things that the fans have been through. … I understand the pain and I’m hoping, I’m praying. I expect to make sure that pain goes away and I think about that every day,” Glenn told reporters after the first practice.
Justin Fields Takes the Reins at Quarterback
The biggest storyline heading into camp is the arrival of Justin Fields as the Jets’ new starting quarterback. The 26-year-old signed a two-year, $40 million deal with the Jets and enters camp as the unquestioned starter – a stark contrast to his situation last year in Pittsburgh.
Fields set ambitious goals for his first season in New York. “Winning a lot of games. Making the playoffs. I think that’s No. 1 on my list for this team. Winning the division as well,” Fields stated during his media availability.
In his first practice, Fields went 5-for-8 passing, showing solid command of the offense. His best throw was a deep corner route to his former Ohio State teammate, Garrett Wilson.
Key Contract Extensions Lock Up Young Stars
The Jets made headlines before camp by securing their two best young players with massive contract extensions:
- Garrett Wilson: 4-year, $130 million extension
- Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner: 4-year, $120.4 million extension
Gardner is the only cornerback in NFL history to receive First-Team All-Pro honors in each of his first two seasons. Wilson has been equally impressive, amassing 279 receptions, 3,249 yards, and 14 touchdowns in just 51 career games.
New Facilities Signal Culture Change
The Jets unveiled a completely renovated locker room featuring high-end technology and unique design elements. Defensive tackle Quinnen Williams called it “Super dope,” reflecting the players’ enthusiasm for the upgraded facilities.
This investment in infrastructure represents the organization’s commitment to changing the culture and providing players with the best resources to succeed.
Position Battles to Watch
Several key position battles will unfold during training camp:
- Center: Joe Tippmann vs. Josh Myers
- Wide Receiver 2 & 3: Josh Reynolds, Allen Lazard, Tyler Johnson, Xavier Gipson, and Malachi Corley competing for spots
- Tight End: Second-round pick Mason Taylor looking to make immediate impact
- Special Teams: Kicker battle between Harrison Mevis and Caden Davis; punter competition with Austin McNamara vs. Kai Kroeger
Breakout Candidates and Players on the Bubble
Second-year running back Braelon Allen was named the New York Jets’ primary breakout candidate ahead of the 2025 season. The young back will look to complement Breece Hall in what could be a dynamic backfield.
On the flip side, wide receiver Malachi Corley faces an uphill battle after a disappointing rookie season. His Day 1 drop from fourth-string QB Brady Cook didn’t help his cause.
Veteran Presence: Mike Westhoff Returns
Former Jets special teams coordinator Mike Westhoff is set to arrive in Florham Park to assist new special teams coordinator Chris Banjo. Westhoff, who coached Glenn during the 2001 season, will serve in a mentorship role during camp.
Glenn’s Four Keys to Success
According to ESPN’s analysis, Glenn must focus on four critical areas:
- Establish Toughness: Transform the team’s soft reputation from last season
- Improve Situationally: Better execution in crucial moments
- Create Accountability: Foster a team-first mentality
- Develop Young Talent: Maximize the potential of players like Fields, Wilson, and Gardner
Looking Ahead: Joint Practices and Preseason
The Jets will hold joint practices with the New York Giants on August 12 and 13, providing valuable competition against an outside opponent. The preseason kicks off August 9 against the Green Bay Packers.
Camp runs through August 21, giving Glenn and his staff crucial time to install their systems and evaluate the roster before the regular season opener on September 7 against Fields’ former team, the Chicago Bears.
The Bottom Line
The Aaron Glenn era has officially begun in New York, bringing fresh energy and hope to a franchise desperate for success. With a new coaching staff, a mobile quarterback in Justin Fields, and young stars locked up long-term, the Jets are positioning themselves for a turnaround.
Whether they can end their playoff drought remains to be seen, but the enthusiasm surrounding this training camp is palpable. As Glenn said, “We have something we’re trying to create.” Jets fans will be watching closely to see if that creation leads to their first winning season since 2015.
The journey begins now, and for the first time in years, there’s genuine optimism in Florham Park. The Jets are banking on Glenn’s leadership, Fields’ athleticism, and a roster full of young talent to finally turn the corner. Training camp will provide the first real glimpse of whether this new regime can deliver on its promises.
