New York Jets: Defensive Coordinator Kacy Rodgers Could Return To Alma Mater (Report)

New York Jets‘ defensive coordinator Kacy Rodgers could be leaving the NFL for a bigtime college football job.

No one will confuse the New York Jets for a Super Bowl team, but often, coaching staffs are picked apart by the vultures the following offseason.

In this case, the Jets defensive coordinator job may soon be vacant. But not because of being fired, but by potentially leaving for a ‘dream job’ scenario.

NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero is among those reporting that Kacy Rodgers is in the mix to replace Butch Jones as head coach for the University of Tennessee.

One NFL name to keep an eye on here: #Jets DC Kacy Rodgers. Vols alum. https://t.co/HOheSkqLqP

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 13, 2017

Rodgers, 48, played four years (1998-91) with the Volunteers. Aside from being honorable mention All-SEC, the linebacker/defensive end was a part of two SEC Championship-winning teams. He played in the Cotton Bowl, Fiesta Bowl and Sugar Bowl.

He’s been the Jets’ defensive coordinator since 2015, though his coaching career began back in 1994. Here are the Jets’ defensive highlights this season, via ESPN Stats and Information:

• Jets are third in the league in tackles (651)
• Gang Green is in the middle of the league in turnover differential (14th)
• Jets are seventh in interceptions (10)

The Jets are now on their bye week (Week 11) before they return to action on Nov. 26 against the Carolina Panthers at home.