The New York Jets are still searching for answers after their narrow loss to the Detroit Lions, but head coach Aaron Glenn is not losing confidence in linebacker Jamien Sherwood.
The Jets fell 31-24 on Sept. 27 after allowing Detroit to score a late touchdown. Sherwood faced criticism for his coverage on Jahmyr Gibbs, who caught the game-winning touchdown pass with 2:25 remaining.
However, Glenn pushed back against the criticism during his latest comments, making it clear that one difficult play has not changed how he views the linebacker.
“Very confident in him. Listen, you (as in @BrianCoz) would have an issue covering Gibbs too. I have all the confidence in the world with Sherwood. I totally disagree [with the idea that he struggled last week]… but guys are gonna make mistakes. Guys are gonna get beat. But how do you respond to that?”
Glenn’s defense had a difficult final sequence against Detroit. The Lions covered 65 yards in four plays, with Gibbs finishing the drive by catching an 11-yard touchdown pass. The play erased New York’s comeback effort and left the Jets with another frustrating result.
Sherwood’s performance, however, involved more than that late-game moment. He recorded eight tackles, including four solo stops, and added a tackle for loss. His overall contribution gives Glenn reason to look beyond one costly play.
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Glenn also understands the pressure of defending Gibbs. The Lions running back is a dangerous receiving threat who can create problems for linebackers in space. That challenge was central to the coach’s response when Sherwood’s coverage came under scrutiny.
The Jets now turn their attention to the Chicago Bears, whom they face on Sunday, Oct. 4. For Sherwood, the matchup presents an immediate opportunity to respond on the field and support Glenn’s public vote of confidence.
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