Kirby Smart Remains at Georgia

Despite Rumors, Smart Committed to Bulldogs

The New York Jets' reported interest in Georgia Bulldogs coach Kirby Smart has ended with Smart deciding to stay in Athens. Speculation about Smart's future began after the Jets fired head coach Robert Saleh following the 2022 season. Smart, a former Jets assistant, was reportedly high on New York's list of potential replacements. However, Smart ultimately decided to remain with Georgia, where he has led the Bulldogs to back-to-back national championships.

Smart's decision is a major blow to the Jets, who are now back to square one in their search for a new head coach. Smart is considered one of the top coaches in college football, and he was seen as the ideal candidate to turn around the Jets' struggling franchise.

Why Did Smart Stay at Georgia?

There are several reasons why Smart decided to stay at Georgia. First, he is comfortable in Athens and has built a successful program at the university. Second, Smart is close to his family, who live in Georgia. Third, Smart is well-compensated at Georgia and is not likely to find a better financial offer elsewhere.

The Jets may have been able to offer Smart a more lucrative contract, but money was not the most important factor in his decision. Smart is more interested in winning championships than in making more money. He knows that he has a better chance of winning at Georgia than he does with the Jets.

What's Next for the Jets?

The Jets must now turn their attention to other coaching candidates. Several other qualified coaches are available, but none of them have Smart's track record of success. The Jets may also consider hiring an offensive coordinator with head coaching experience, such as Sean Payton or Eric Bieniemy.

The Jets' search for a new head coach is likely to continue for several weeks. The team is expected to interview several candidates before making a decision. Whoever the Jets hire will have their work cut out for them. The Jets have not made the playoffs since 2010 and have not won a Super Bowl since 1969.

Kirby Smart New York Jets