Jets Hire Four for Defensive Coaching Staff

New additions include linebackers, safeties, and defensive assistants with NFL and college experience

Feb. 12, 2026 at 2:47pm

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The New York Jets have finalized their defensive coaching staff with four new hires - linebackers coach Ben Bolling, safeties coach Ryan Slowik, defensive assistant/nickels coach Ronald Booker, and defensive assistant Collin Bauer. The new coaches bring a mix of NFL and college experience, with Bolling previously working with the Houston Texans, Slowik with the Miami Dolphins, Booker with the Arizona Cardinals, and Bauer with several college programs.

Why it matters

The Jets are looking to improve their defense after a disappointing season, and these new hires bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the coaching staff. The additions of Bolling, Slowik, Booker, and Bauer will aim to help the team's defense take a step forward in the upcoming season.

The details

Ben Bolling, 32, was the assistant linebackers coach with the Houston Texans for the past five seasons after starting as a defensive assistant. Ryan Slowik, 45, worked closely with new Jets defensive coordinator Brian Duker as the Dolphins' defensive backs coach and passing game specialist. Ronald Booker just completed his fifth season with the Arizona Cardinals, the last three as a defensive quality control coach. Collin Bauer comes to the Jets from the UFL, where he was the Michigan Panthers' defensive coordinator and defensive line coach.

  • The Jets finalized their defensive coaching staff on February 12, 2026.

The players

Ben Bolling

32-year-old linebackers coach who previously worked as an assistant with the Houston Texans.

Ryan Slowik

45-year-old safeties coach who worked closely with new Jets defensive coordinator Brian Duker in Miami.

Ronald Booker

Defensive assistant/nickels coach who just completed his fifth season with the Arizona Cardinals, the last three as a defensive quality control coach.

Collin Bauer

Defensive assistant who comes to the Jets from the UFL, where he was the Michigan Panthers' defensive coordinator and defensive line coach.

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The takeaway

The Jets have brought in a group of experienced defensive coaches to help improve their unit after a disappointing season. The new hires have a mix of NFL and college experience, and will aim to provide a fresh perspective to the team's defense.