New Jets head coach Robert Saleh is filling out his offensive coaching staff.
And this is particularly important, since Saleh is a defensive-minded coach. He was the 49ers’ defensive coordinator before the Jets made him a first-time head coach.
Here are the additions, according to NFL Network …
Offensive coordinator: Mike LaFleur (49ers passing game coordinator)
Offensive line coach/running game coordinator: John Benton (49ers offensive line coach)
Quarterbacks coach: Greg Knapp (Falcons quarterbacks coach)
Passing game specialist: Rob Calabrese (Broncos offensive quality control coach)
This is a homecoming for Calabrese, who grew up on Long Island — Islip Terrace, N.Y.
The Jets obviously need to improve their offense, and might need to fix incumbent quarterback Sam Darnold — who has struggled through three seasons — if they decide to retain him.
The Jets finished last season 32nd in Pro Football Focus’ offensive ratings. The 49ers were 14th, with head coach Kyle Shanahan calling the plays and LaFleur playing a big role.
In terms of offensive line play, the Jets were 31st in pass blocking and 19th in run blocking, according to PFF’s ratings. The 49ers were 24th and second in those categories.
LaFleur is expected to run a Mike/Kyle Shanahan-style offense. Darnold was in that offense as a rookie in 2018, with coordinator Jeremy Bates. And Darnold had some success late in his rookie season, though he has not been able to build on that.
If Darnold sticks around Florham Park, he likely will be entering the final year of his rookie contract in 2021, since the Jets this offseason probably won’t pick up his fully guaranteed fifth-year option for 2022.
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