Jets news: Todd Monken reveals NY message after being passed over for HC job for Adam Gase

Jets news: Todd Monken reveals NY message after being passed over for HC job for Adam Gase appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Todd Monken is infusing new life into the Cleveland Browns and getting the most out of quarterback Deshaun Watson. It is early, but the first-year head coach is bringing both verve and victories to one of the most mocked franchises in American sports. Another organization that resides in that category actually had an opportunity to hire him back in 2019. Although the New York Jets interviewed Monken for their HC vacancy, they ultimately chose Adam Gase instead.

We all know how that one turned out. That decision set the squad back, but it actually propelled Monken forward. Yes, the Wheaton, Illinois native waited another seven years before getting his big break with the Browns, and he probably started to wonder if another head coaching opportunity would arise. The experience left a lasting impression on him, though.

One member of the Jets who was involved in the interview process offered some valuable words of wisdom, and they have stuck with Monken after all this time.

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“Don’t ever forget that you’re a Mercedes when you look in the mirror. You can’t control if they wanted a Lexus,” he recalled, per The 33rd Team’s Ari Meirov. “Doesn’t matter how good of a Mercedes you are, if they want the other car, there’s nothing you can do about it.”

#Browns HC Todd Monken recalls what he was told after interviewing for the #Jets‘ HC job in 2019, when they ultimately hired Adam Gase.

“Don’t ever forget that you’re a Mercedes when you look in the mirror. You can’t control if they wanted a Lexus.” pic.twitter.com/l7Fsqx1qYS

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) October 9, 2026

Todd Monken, now 60 years of age, has a healthy outlook on life and is grateful for everything he experienced prior to landing the Cleveland job. He does not seem to have malice in his heart for the Jets. New York’s fans may feel differently, though.

Adam Gase, who did lead the Miami Dolphins to the playoffs in the 2016 campaign, compiled a 9-23 record with the Gang Green and was unable to develop eventual Super Bowl-winning quarterback Sam Darnold. It remains to be seen if Monken is truly a good head coach, but he is making Jets supporters ponder what could have been.

He also forced them to relive the Gase era, so expect some hard feelings when the Browns arrive in MetLife Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The action kicks off at 1 p.m. ET.

Related: Jets still missing Breece Hall for Week 5 clash with Browns