The New York Jets have parted ways with general manager Mike Maccagnan, the team announced Wednesday morning.
The Jets have struggled throughout Maccagnan’s tenure, but it’s still a surprising move due to the timing. Maccagnan led the Jets through prep for the NFL draft, which wrapped up less than a month ago.
New York notably selected Quinnen Williams with the No. 3 overall pick in this year’s draft.
“Mike helped to execute the strategic vision of the organization during the last four seasons and especially the past few months,” Jets CEO Christopher Johnson said in a statement. “However, I came to the decision to make a change after much thought and a careful assessment of what would be in the best long-term interests of the New York Jets.”
The Jets are also parting ways with VP of player personnel Brian Heimerdinger, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Jeff Darlington
New coach Adam Gase will serve as the acting general manager, Johnson added in the release.
However, this move isn’t surprising to those around the NFL. The Athletic’s Michael Lombardi reported after the draft that there was internal tension between Gase and Maccagnan.
Maccagnan has been with the Jets the last four seasons, and played a major role in drafting quarterback Sam Darnold as well as with signing running back Le’Veon Bell this offseason.
From a gambling perspective, this change hasn’t impacted much. The Jets remain longshots at +7000 to win Super Bowl 54 according to Bovada. However, the Jets are three-point favorites vs. the Bills in Week 1.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah is a candidate to land the permanent GM job.