New York Jets general manager Mike Maccagnan professionally addresses the “hot seat” rumors that have plagued the NFL Draft.
Mike Maccagnan could not have handled the situation in a greater fashion.
Speaking to reporters late Friday night, Maccagnan showcased his professional colors regarding the rumors that he’s currently on the “hot seat,” via Rich Cimini of ESPN New York.
“I don’t think I’m really going to sit here and comment about my job,” Maccagnan told reporters on Friday, via Rich Cimini of ESPN.com. “I’m focused on the draft. I feel good about the situation we’re in.”
The trouble in paradise commenced with two separate reports.
Tony Pauline of Draft Analyst reported the “internal rift” between Maccagnan and head coach Adam Gase over personnel.
this has been brewing for a while…i've known about this since the start of free agency but wanted more confirmation…what i didn't say in the podcast, which i was told earlier this week, is that several have told me it could be sooner rather than later for Maccagnan..
— Tony Pauline (@TonyPauline) April 26, 2019
Michael Lombardi of The Athletic then came over the top with the capper. Front office changes could be coming once the draft concludes.
I hear that all is not well in New York Jets land about their scouting operation. General Manager Mike Maccagnan is on the hot seat internally, and many in the league expect changes in the Jets’ front office after the draft. Stay tuned. https://t.co/WEciqKkI5D
— Michael Lombardi (@mlombardiNFL) April 26, 2019
Even two different league sources told Pro Football Talk that, “after the draft, Maccagnan could be relieved of his duties.”
Maccagnan, however, has remained stoic in his focus on the active task at hand and completely denied any issues with his head coach.
“Actually, I think Adam and I have worked very well together,” Maccagnan said Friday. “I’m sure, like in any process, there are times where . . . you know, you work through the process.
“It’s just like in a scouting meeting. You might have different opinions on a player. But, from my standpoint, I’ve actually had a very good working relationship with Adam. Quite frankly, as I’ve said before, he has a very good sense of humor. He makes me laugh quite a bit, which is one of the reasons why I like working with him.”
The rumored sticking point is Le’Veon Bell and Matt Paradis. Gase wanted enforcements up front, something Maccagnan has failed to snag over the years. Reports to the rift had Christopher Johnson even monitoring the relationship between the two at team facilities leading up to this point.
The Jets drafted interior defensive tackle Quinnen Williams No. 3 overall, EDGE Jachai Polite and offensive tackle Chuma Edoga on Day 2, and tight end Trevon Wesco and linebacker Blake Cashman on Saturday.
