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(Florham Park, NJ) – The New York Jets season began with Super Bowl aspirations. But with the team tied for last place in the AFC East, owner Woody Johnson has confirmed the team is parting ways with GM Joe Douglas. Johnson put out a statement thanking Douglas for his commitment to the team. He served as general manager for six seasons.
Douglas oversaw the team’s attempted rebuild following the coaching tenures of Rex Ryan and Todd Bowles. His draft choices proved solid at times — although standout corner Sauce Gardner has struggled this season — as has the defense overall. Douglas also made the decision to send significant draft capital to the Green Bay Packers for veteran QB Aaron Rodgers. To date, the move has yet to yield significant on the field results.
Also, Douglas drafted since-departed and current Denver Broncos’ backup QB Zach Wilson, who never cemented his role as the Jets franchise QB as the team wished.
The firing of the team’s GM comes six weeks after then head coach Robert Saleh was dismissed. Jeff Ulbrich has been serving as interim head coach. Reports say former Cleveland Browns GM Phil Savage will serve as the Jets interim GM for the rest of the season.
