“Analytics” has become an overcharged word in NFL circles, especially for organizations like the New York Jets.
When people think of analytics, they often think of the film Moneyball, an exaggerated take on the 2002 Oakland Athletics and Billy Beane’s commitment to using data to make roster decisions.
As some NFL teams have begun incorporating similar statistical analysis methods, others have used analytics merely as a tool at certain times.
New Jets general manager Darren Mougey has shown a penchant for being an executive who utilizes analytics in a way conducive to NFL success — more as part of the discussion, but never the driving force behind decisions.
It’s why New York enters a new season with renewed hope for the team for the first time in years.
Jets’ analytical approach
Speaking to reporters during his end-of-training-camp news conference, the former Broncos executive turned GM shared his philosophy on building the Jets’ roster this year.
Like any well-rounded general manager, Mougey made it clear he is looking for any advantage to improve the team — analytics or not.
“Generally speaking, we’re always looking to improve the roster in all different avenues,” Mougey said. “I don’t know that I have a philosophy and not really into the hypotheticals, but we’re always going to look to improve the roster in any way we can.”
One of the most obvious characteristics Mougey has shown in recent weeks is his willingness to be aggressive. Last week, the Jets acquired defensive tackles Harrison Phillips and Jowon Briggs to bolster the defensive line.
Both Phillips and Briggs boast strong metrics as run defenders. Briggs is a young player on the rise, while Phillips has long been known as one of the best run-stopping tackles in the game.
By giving up mere late-round pick swaps, the Jets have demonstrated an understanding of the importance of draft pick valuations and the analytics that can drive those decisions.
“If we feel it’s the best thing for the team today and moving forward in the future, then we will do that,” Mougey explained. “We’re constantly diving into the analytic studies of those value picks, and the value of the player, so it’s a collaborative effort whenever we do make those decisions and moves.”
The collaboration Mougey referenced is readily apparent. With head coach Aaron Glenn at the helm of the roster, the Jets have a coach and executive almost tied at the hip regarding how they want the team to look in 2025.
There’s no guarantee the organization will meet those goals.
But the mere fact that the Jets seem open to any and all conversations — from trades to analytical analysis — shows they are operating very differently than they have in the past.
That alone should excite the fanbase.