NY Jets could be in driver's seat for Brian Flores as HC amid interview rumors

The New York Jets might be moving into the next stage of their head coaching search, which could help them get one step closer to bringing Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores to town.

Flores and Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who played for the Jets for nearly a decade, have been frequently mentioned as two of the top names in the Jets' head coaching search. Glenn, however, is being pulled between the Jets and New Orleans Saints, with whom he served as defensive backs coach for five seasons.

If the Saints poach Glenn, the Jets may be more willing to put on a full-court press for Flores. Now that his Vikings are eliminated from the playoffs, Flores can officially interview with teams both virtually and in person. The Jaguars, Raiders, and Bears will all interview Flores in person.

With Flores seemingly very low on Chicago and Jacksonville's lists and the Raiders going all-in on Ben Johnson, the Jets may be the biggest Flores fans out there. The idea of hiring Flores, which could bring in Josh McCown as offensive coordinator and Ryan Grigson as general manager, could be coming to fruition.

Jets in driver's seat for Vikings DC Brian Flores amid head coach buzz

Flores' defense ranked fifth in the league in points allowed, fourth in sacks, and first in interceptions. His penchant for blitzing and causing havoc has given him an auteur element to his defenses that will be very attractive to teams like the Jets. Flores is a perfect candidate to get a second go-around as head coach.

In his first three seasons with the Miami Dolphins, in which he was handed a roster so bad that his owner was accused of trying to tank an entire season on purpose, Flores was a .500 coach. Imagine when he has Breece Hall instead of Kalen Ballage and (possibly) Aaron Rodgers instead of ancient Ryan Fitzpatrick.

There are some negatives associated with hiring him, however. His stint in Miami failed to produce a playoff run, and his tyrannical attitude made some players miserable during his time there. Many have accused his defense of struggling against elite quarterbacks, often feasting against overwhelmed lower-end starters.

While Glenn still seems to be the leader in the clubhouse for the Jets, they might be able to land Flores if their former top cornerback puts on black and gold. Flores has flaws, but the potential of what he could be with the right staff will make him a very intriguing hire for the Jets.