The Chicago Bears have found a ton of defensive success in 2025, playing a big role in their 10-win start through 15 weeks. Defensive backs coach and defensive pass game coordinator Al Harris is playing a big role in this unit's success; however, he might be auditioning for an open role that just became available.
New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn announced on Monday that the team was parting ways with defensive coordinator Steve Wilks, per ESPN's Rich Cimini. They promoted Chris Harris to interim DC, but that won't stop the Jets from holding a search for Wilks' full-time replacement in the offseason.
With all the success he's found in the Windy City, Harris is someone who should be atop the list, and the next few weeks are the perfect time for him to prove it.
Al Harris Is Auditioning for Jets' DC Job
There's been a discourse among New York fans who want Harris, including Jets podcast host Will Parkinson. He pointed out that Harris has learned under Bears head coach Ben Johnson and DCDennis Allen in 2025, and the results have been telling.
In 2025, Chicago is leading the NFL in turnover differential at plus-20 and interceptions (21). Kevin Byard III and Nahshon Wright both have snagged at least five interceptions, as Harris has found ways to get the most out of these guys.
Harris been able to make a difference in the secondary, especially since the Bears were without Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon for the majority of the season. Nonetheless, Harris is a name that will be discussed around league circles and could be a candidate for New York.
Under Wilks, New York ranked 20th in total defense (337.4) and 30th in scoring defense (28.4). The biggest problem is that the Jets have yet to secure an interception, going 15 straight weeks without one, which is an NFL record. And that's a jarring stat, considering how unlikely that is. Whether it's a bad pass, a tipped ball, or great play from a defender, New York hasn't snagged one.
The Jets also seemed to be outschemed every week, as they've allowed 30-plus points in six games in 2025. In the loss to the Jaguars in Week 15, New York let Trevor Lawrence throw for 330 yards with five passing touchdowns. The worst part is that Lawrence was pulled early in the fourth quarter.
If the Jaguars let Lawrence stay in the game, there's a possibility that he would have thrown for seven or eight passing scores. Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey will be in New York for the foreseeable future and will take their time finding a new voice to lead the defense. And with how Harris has looked in Chicago this season, he would be a great option for Glenn to consider.