Aaron Glenn gets the game.
The first-year New York Jets coach understands that any time he compliments running backs Braelon Allen or Isaiah Davis, it could invite speculation that the Jets are looking to trade Breece Hall. This dynamic became evident in the spring, when Glenn's remarks about backfield depth quickly led to speculation about Hall's future.
On Tuesday, Glenn was asked about Allen's size and what it brings to the offense. He finished his response by steering the conversation away from those Hall trade rumors.
"We have like three good running backs, and I keep saying that," Glenn said. "Listen, they all have different skill sets that we're going to utilize.
"And that does not mean that I'm trading Breece. OK? Does not! So, I'm going to say that right now. I just like having three good guys. Hell, I wish I had more, but we don't."
The quote underscores two points:
First, Glenn is keenly aware of the market in which he now coaches. Having played in New York, he understands how narratives can quickly gain traction and run away from a coach. His candid, light-hearted approach can cut through that noise -- at least at this early stage.
Second, as anticipated, New York is poised to deploy a committee in the backfield.
While Hall should get more carries than the rest of the running backs, Allen and Davis provide different elements that New York can use to its benefit. Glenn and new offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand came from a Detroit offense that leaned on both Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery over the past two seasons. They'll set up something similar in New York to utilize the strengths of the backfield.
