Jets Eye Commanders' Assistant General Manager for Front Office

A Critical Examination of the Complexities

The New York Jets are reportedly set to interview Washington Commanders assistant general manager for player personnel, Eric Stokes, for their own vacant general manager position. Stokes would bring a wealth of experience to the Jets, having spent the past 12 seasons with the Commanders and their predecessor, the Redskins. He has been instrumental in the team's success, helping build a young and talented roster that has made multiple playoff appearances in recent years.

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to hiring Stokes. He has never been a general manager before, and his lack of experience in that role could be a concern. Additionally, he has been a part of the Commanders' front office during some tumultuous times, including the team's recent name change and the ongoing investigation into the team's workplace culture. It is unclear how these experiences would translate to a role with the Jets.

Stokes' Qualifications

Stokes has a strong track record in player personnel, having spent time in both the college and pro scouting departments before being promoted to assistant general manager in 2020. He is widely respected around the league for his eye for talent and his ability to develop players. He has also been involved in some of the Commanders' biggest draft successes in recent years, including the selections of quarterback Dwayne Haskins and running back Antonio Gibson.

In addition to his scouting experience, Stokes also has a strong understanding of the salary cap and contract negotiations. He has been involved in some of the Commanders' biggest contract extensions in recent years, including the deals for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and wide receiver Terry McLaurin.

Potential Concerns

While there is no question that Stokes is a qualified candidate for the Jets' general manager position, there are also some potential concerns that the team should consider. As mentioned before, Stokes has never been a general manager before, and his lack of experience in that role could be a concern. Additionally, he has been a part of the Commanders' front office during some tumultuous times, including the team's recent name change and the ongoing investigation into the team's workplace culture. It is unclear how these experiences would translate to a role with the Jets.

Another potential concern is that Stokes is known to be a strong supporter of Commanders head coach Ron Rivera. If Stokes were to be hired by the Jets, it is possible that he would try to bring Rivera with him. This could be a problem for the Jets, who are already committed to head coach Robert Saleh.

Conclusion

The Jets are facing a difficult decision in their search for a new general manager. Eric Stokes is a qualified candidate with a strong track record in player personnel. However, there are also some potential concerns that the team should consider. The Jets will need to weigh these factors carefully before making a decision.

In the end, the decision of whether or not to hire Stokes will come down to the Jets' new ownership group. The new owners will need to decide whether they are willing to take a chance on a first-time general manager. They will also need to decide whether they are comfortable with Stokes' ties to the Commanders' recent controversies.

If the Jets do decide to hire Stokes, they will be betting on a young and talented executive with a bright future. However, they will also be taking on some potential risks. Only time will tell if Stokes is the right man to lead the Jets back to the playoffs.