Aaron Glenn, the head coach of the New York Jets, has expressed confidence in linebacker Quincy Williams, who has recently been benched. Glenn commented that Williams will “be just fine,” despite a tumultuous week for the player, which included the trade of his brother, Quinnen Williams, to the Dallas Cowboys.
On Wednesday, Quincy revealed to reporters that he had lost his starting position after being informed by the Jets coaching staff. Glenn, however, chose to keep specifics of their conversations private. “Here”s what I”ll say about that,” Glenn stated on Friday. “I keep all of those conversations in-house between me and him, even though you guys know it already. That”s the first thing. The second thing is we do things a certain way here, and that”s how we”re going to operate. And the third thing is Quincy is going to be just fine. Just trust me on that.”
During practice, Glenn and Williams were seen embracing and conversing as players stretched. Williams shared that the coaching staff had indicated he was “underperforming” and not meeting the team”s standards. In the first three weeks of the season, Williams had a notable performance with 15 combined tackles and 1.5 sacks before a shoulder injury placed him on injured reserve, sidelining him until the Week 8 victory against Cincinnati.
Coaches have advised Williams to improve his technique, particularly emphasizing a more aggressive downhill approach and better use of his hands during plays. With Williams” status uncertain, fifth-round pick Kiko Mauigoa may step into the starting role for the upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns.
Despite the changes, Steve Wilks, the defensive coordinator, affirmed Williams” continued importance to the team. “Quincy is still a major part of what we are trying to accomplish and get done,” Wilks noted. “I think he may have said it to you guys, just the details that we talk about, and that”s with everybody. You know, great eyes, the violent play, playing downhill, particularly at that linebacker position, using your hands, and I think he”s still going to be a part of what we are trying to accomplish and get done.”
As for the Jets” quarterback situation ahead of Sunday”s game, Glenn again refrained from naming a starter but assured the media, “We”ll have a quarterback.” Justin Fields is anticipated to take the reins. Tyrod Taylor, who missed travel to Cincinnati due to a knee issue, is no longer listed on the injury report. Mauigoa is questionable for Sunday”s game but participated fully in practice after being limited earlier in the week. Additionally, running back Khalil Herbert (groin), offensive lineman Xavier Newman (ankle), who did not practice Friday, and wide receiver Garrett Wilson (knee), who was a full participant, are also on the injury list.
