New York Jets: New offensive line coach key to success in 2018

The New York Jets have fired offensive line coach Steve Marshall on Wednesday, and his replacement is the most important addition to the franchise this offseason.

Another New York Jets assistant coach bites the dust.

First they fired offensive coordinator John Morton because the offense ranked near the bottom in many major categories and because of philosophical differences with Todd Bowles centered around him passing too much (155 times more dropbacks than rushing attempts). Now the man who was in charge of one of the worst units in the NFL, Steve Marshall, got his pink slip.

Many outlets first reported this firing, and it was confirmed by the Jets official Twitter account.

No matter how you slice it, the Jets offensive line was terrible in 2017. According to Pro Football Focus Elite, the 176 pressures allowed was 14th most in the NFL, and the 25 sacks allowed was sixth most. That lead to a Pass Block Efficiency rating of 76, seventh lowest in the NFL.

Their run blocking was just as bad. According to Football Outsiders, they were ranked near the bottom in Power Success (“Percentage of runs on third or fourth down, two yards or less to go, that achieved a first down or touchdown. Also includes runs on first-and-goal or second-and-goal from the two-yard line or closer.”), Stuffed (percentage of runs that gained zero or negative yards), and Adjusted Line Yards (yards gained as a result of the line).

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The Jets have spent too many year neglecting the offensive line. This year they must shift focus and go heavy on the offensive line. The coach will be the most important piece to the puzzle, though. The offensive line is the most important component of any offense, and that coach is the most important of all the offensive coaches. Their ability can dictate how an offensive game plan is implemented. The Jets need to hit a home run on this coach.