Jets part ways with GM Joe Douglas after dismal season, appoint Savage as interim replacement."

 

**Jets Fire GM Joe Douglas Amid Struggles, Name Phil Savage Interim GM**  

*FLORHAM PARK, N.J.* — The New York Jets’ tumultuous season has led to another major shake-up, with owner Woody Johnson announcing Tuesday the dismissal of general manager Joe Douglas.  

Phil Savage, a senior football adviser and former Cleveland Browns GM (2005-08), will step in as the team’s interim general manager.  

“Today, I informed Joe Douglas he will no longer serve as the General Manager of the New York Jets. I want to thank Joe for his dedication over the past six years and wish him and his family the best moving forward,” Johnson stated. He also confirmed the Jets would immediately begin the search for a new GM.  

### Struggles Under Douglas  

Douglas departs with a 30-64 record since his hiring in 2019, a mark tied for the third-worst in the NFL during that span. The Jets have yet to secure a winning season or playoff berth under his leadership.  

Key roster moves defined Douglas’ tenure, including drafting stars like wide receiver Garrett Wilson and cornerback Sauce Gardner. However, his decision to draft quarterback Zach Wilson second overall in 2021, following the trade of Sam Darnold, proved costly. A subsequent trade for Aaron Rodgers in 2023 also failed to deliver results, as Rodgers struggled after missing most of the prior season with a torn Achilles.  

Quarterback performance has been a glaring issue, with the Jets ranking last in Total QBR (36), completion rate (59.6%), and yards per attempt (6.3) since 2019, per ESPN Research.  

### Coaching Turmoil  

Douglas’ dismissal follows the firing of head coach Robert Saleh just seven weeks ago. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich has since led the team to a 1-5 record, adding to the season's challenges.  

Douglas was on an expiring contract and set to be a free agent after the season. His legacy with the Jets remains tied to unresolved quarterback issues and a failure to turn the franchise into a contender.  

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### **Meanwhile in Cleveland:**  

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski dismissed concerns about his job security amid a 2-8 start, emphasizing his focus on preparing the team for Thursday's game against the Steelers. Despite winning NFL Coach of the Year last season, Stefanski faces mounting pressure as the Browns endure another disappointing campaign.  

Quarterback Deshaun Watson’s season-ending injury has compounded the Browns' struggles, further testing the resilience of Stefanski and GM Andrew Berry. Both signed extensions earlier this year but have faced questions about the team’s direction.