Todd Downing, a well-known name in NFL coaching circles, has had a career filled with both achievements and controversies. Born on July 22, 1980, in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Downing currently serves as the passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the New York Jets. With a background that includes working for various teams like the Detroit Lions, Oakland Raiders, and Tennessee Titans, Downing has made a significant mark in football.
Recently, in October 2024, Todd Downing was named the offensive play caller for the New York Jets following a major shakeup in the team’s coaching staff. His appointment came after head coach Robert Saleh was fired, and Nathaniel Hackett was demoted. While Downing has been respected for his coaching skills, his career has not been without its challenges, including a DUI arrest in 2022 during his time with the Tennessee Titans.
Key Takeaways
- Todd Downing, born in 1980, is a seasoned NFL coach with experience at several high-profile teams.
- In 2024, he was appointed as the offensive play caller for the New York Jets after the team underwent major changes.
- Downing’s career has been a mix of success and challenges, including a DUI arrest in 2022.
- He has worked as an offensive coordinator and position coach with teams like the Tennessee Titans and Oakland Raiders.
Todd Downing’s NFL Career Journey
Todd Downing’s coaching career began in 2003 with the Minnesota Vikings. Over the years, he gained valuable experience with teams like the St. Louis Rams, Detroit Lions, and Buffalo Bills. However, it was with the Oakland Raiders in 2017 where he first gained national recognition as an offensive coordinator, helping to develop quarterback Derek Carr, who made the Pro Bowl under his guidance. Downing’s ability to lead an offense made him a sought-after coach, even as he faced the ups and downs of the ever-changing NFL landscape.
Todd Downing’s Time with the Titans
Downing’s role with the Tennessee Titans from 2019 to 2022 played a crucial part in shaping his reputation. Initially hired as the tight ends coach, he was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2021. Under his leadership, the Titans’ offense thrived, with standout performances from players like Derrick Henry. Despite this, his time with the Titans took a difficult turn when he was arrested for DUI and speeding in November 2022. This incident cast a shadow over his tenure, but he continued to serve in his coaching role for the remainder of the season.
| Year | Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Minnesota Vikings | Intern |
| 2017 | Oakland Raiders | Offensive Coordinator |
| 2019-2020 | Tennessee Titans | Tight Ends Coach |
| 2021-2022 | Tennessee Titans | Offensive Coordinator |
| 2023-Present | New York Jets | Passing Game Coordinator & Quarterbacks Coach |
Todd Downing’s New Role with the New York Jets
In 2023, Todd Downing joined the New York Jets as the passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach. His primary responsibility was to work closely with the quarterbacks and improve the Jets’ offensive strategy. By 2024, after a series of disappointing performances, the Jets made a bold move by promoting Downing to offensive play caller. The decision came from interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich after Robert Saleh was let go. Downing’s new role puts him in charge of revamping the Jets’ offense and helping to turn the team’s fortunes around.
Todd Downing and His Impact on the Jets’ Offense
With his promotion to offensive play caller, Todd Downing is now tasked with designing and implementing game plans that maximize the talent on the Jets’ roster. The move was a major shift for the team as they look to improve their standing in a competitive AFC East division. Downing’s experience with quarterbacks, especially his previous work with players like Derek Carr and Ryan Tannehill, has given him the tools to help the Jets overcome their recent struggles.
Controversies – Todd Downing’s DUI Arrest
One of the most talked-about moments in Todd Downing’s career came in 2022 when he was arrested for DUI while serving as the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans. This incident occurred after a game, leading to negative publicity and raising questions about his future in the league. Despite this, Downing continued in his role for the remainder of the season. While the arrest remains a notable part of his history, Downing has since moved forward and continues to work at the highest levels of the NFL.
Todd Downing’s Future in the NFL
As 2024 unfolds, Todd Downing faces both great opportunities and significant pressure in his new role with the Jets. The NFL is a league that values results, and Downing will need to prove that he can lead the Jets’ offense to success. His career journey shows that he has the ability to adapt and grow, even in the face of adversity. For Jets fans, there is hope that Downing can help bring stability and innovation to their offense, potentially paving the way for a more successful season.
FAQs
Who is Todd Downing?
Todd Downing is an NFL coach born in 1980. He is currently the offensive play caller and quarterbacks coach for the New York Jets, after working with teams like the Minnesota Vikings, Oakland Raiders, and Tennessee Titans.
What is Todd Downing’s latest role in 2024?
In October 2024, Todd Downing was promoted to offensive play caller for the New York Jets after a coaching shakeup, including the firing of head coach Robert Saleh.
What happened with Todd Downing’s DUI arrest?
In November 2022, Todd Downing was arrested for DUI and speeding while serving as the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans. Despite the incident, he continued coaching for the rest of the season.
What teams has Todd Downing coached for?
Todd Downing has worked for several NFL teams, including the Minnesota Vikings, St. Louis Rams, Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills, Oakland Raiders, Tennessee Titans, and New York Jets.
What was Todd Downing’s role with the Tennessee Titans?
Todd Downing was the tight ends coach from 2019 to 2020 and the offensive coordinator from 2021 to 2022 for the Tennessee Titans.