New York Jets special teams coordinator Chris Banjo recently landed on an extremely prestigious list. The Athletic ranked 50 rising NFL coaches under 40 years old. Banjo was named. Given the uncertainty surrounding the Jets' special teams unit heading into the 2026 season, that belief will be tested.
The Jets were excellent on special teams last season. They finished first in yards per kickoff return (29.9), and sixth in yards per punt return (13.4). They scored three total touchdowns on kickoff and punt returns. Kicker Nick Folk was automatic, as the Jets led the league in field goal percentage (96.6%), going an exceptional 28-of-29.
But the Jets made the peculiar decision to let Folk walk in free agency, and their kicking situation has been
a disaster ever since. After unfathomably cycling through six different kickers this offseason, Blake Grupe will be the starter in Week 1. Grupe just joined the Jets earlier this week as a waiver-wire claim.
Special teams coordinators are tasked with maximizing their units. Kickers must be held responsible for their successes and failures, but Banjo will also share responsibility for whatever happens in the kicking (and punting) games this season. Banjo is a rising coach, but he's about to face his stiffest coaching challenge yet.
Who are the NFL’s rising coaches, executives and other personnel who significantly impact the league and the sport?
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) September 1, 2026
Presenting @JourdanRodrigue and @ByMikeJones’ 2026 NFL 50 under 40 list ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/gd2VmQqwQd
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets special teams coach Chris Banjo will be tested in 2026
