The New York Jets are in the hunt for a new addition to their roster. Mistakes on special teams, as well as their offense, have been hurting their chances as they wait for their first win of the season. For now, the focus remains on the return game. It’s been inconsistent, and head coach Aaron Glenn isn’t happy. The team’s brass knows that a boost in even a single position could be the difference. With the November 4 trade deadline inching near, a new kick returner could soon add hope.

The Athletic’s Dianna Russini put it simply, “They are making calls looking for a kick returner.” And after the shuffle they’ve seen at the position, it’s hardly surprising.

Kick returner Kene Nwangwu got sidelined in Week 1 with an injury. Xavier Gipson became the next man up. But his fumble added to the heartbreak of the 34-32 loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Rookie receiver Arian Smith took up the helm after that fumble in the game. But beyond that loss? Gipson was out, and the Jets began the hunt for a specialist who could change the momentum on special teams. 

Running back Keilan Robinson was also a practice squad addition with some return experience. But even he’s designated as ‘out’ now. Fellow running back Braelon Allen also got a shot at it. The team has tried different players, but no one’s stuck. Injuries, inconsistencies, and fumbles have now made it obvious. They need a dedicated returner. But who takes up that mantle is something we’ll have to wait and see. Meanwhile, there’s another question looming large in the locker room.

As Aaron Glenn & Co. chase a returner, there’s swirling doubts around their running back Breece Hall. Rumors keep flying about Hall, even insiders note that the Jets are receiving calls about him. But Hall? He’s all-in with Glenn.

Breece Hall’s future with Aaron Glenn

The trade rumors around Breece Hall had hit a fever pitch back in the offseason. At the time, Aaron Glenn had personally called Hall to let him know that he’s the running back for the Jets and there’s no plans to let him go. Glenn had also noted the same thing in a recent presser, doubling down on his original stance despite the ongoing speculations.

“They’re rumors. … I still feel the same way.”

As for Hall himself, he was asked what it has been like playing under the vocal leadership of Aaron Glenn. Hall’s response? He didn’t hesitate to hype up his coach.

“He’s right in everything he says. I like that he speaks with intentionality. … our standard as players is like we still want to win everything and we haven’t put ourselves in the best position to win all the time. … He’s a great leader of men and I love that. I have the opportunity to sit there and listen to him every day and see how he goes about his stuff every day.”

Breece Hall’s respect for Aaron Glenn? It’s real. Hall’s comments show he’s fully aware of the storm around him. But the Jets don’t seem to have any plans to cut ties with him, despite the raging interest from around the league. But all of this trade talk and mutual respect paints a larger picture. The Jets are rebuilding and fixing their short-term gaps. Will they be enough to turn a 0-6 record on its heels? We wait for a new kick returner, and the season ahead to unfold.