Wink Martindale seems to confirm bombshell rumor about Jets owner Woody Johnson

A February report claimed that New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn wanted to hire former New York Giants defensive coordinator Don "Wink" Martindale to be the Jets' DC before Jets owner Woody Johnson allegedly made it clear that he wanted Glenn to coach the team's defense. 

The Jets ultimately hired Miami Dolphins passing game coordinator and secondary coach Brian Duker for the job. During the latest edition of the "Talkin' Ball with Pat Leonard" podcast, Martindale discussed what happened involving the Jets this offseason. 

Who decided that the Jets wouldn't hire Wink Martindale?

"I think it was close," Martindale said about possibly being hired by the Jets, per Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk. "First of all, I’ve always respected, and I like Aaron Glenn. He’s a good dude, and we think a lot alike on a lot of similar things defensively. But I think it was one of those, just to be honest with you, I think it was one of those decisions that was out of his hands, and we’ll just leave it at that. But that’s okay. Wherever you’re at is where you’re supposed to be. That’s what I’ve lived by forever and will until I go away."

Martindale served as the Giants' defensive coordinator for the 2022 and 2023 seasons until his relationship with then-head coach Brian Daboll reportedly deteriorated. More recently, Martindale held that role at the University of Michigan over the past two college campaigns. 

Meanwhile, Johnson has a reputation for meddling. Some Jets fans and other members of the NFL community view him as the biggest reason Gang Green's active postseason drought is at 15 years and counting. 

Wink Martindale liked this one aspect of the Jets job

Martindale has yet to receive a different coaching job this offseason. It sounds like he wanted to take another bite of the Big Apple, this time with the Jets. 

"I was excited to get back to the city, and I think that would’ve been fun. I think it would’ve been a great challenge," Martindale told Leonard.

Perhaps Martindale wouldn't have had as much fun as he thinks if those who have suggested the Jets are about to "tank" the 2026 season with the 2027 NFL Draft in mind are proven right.