It sounds like the Jets are already thinking about their next head coach.

With Todd Bowles expected to be fired at season’s end, Gang Green is going to need a new man in charge. One name that’s been frequently mentioned is Mike McCarthy. According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the former Packers coach is “very high” on New York’s list. Garafolo added that the Jets plan on going “big-game hunting” when it comes to finding Bowles’ replacement.

McCarthy would fit that description. He spent nearly 13 seasons in Green Bay; he was fired after a disappointing 4-7-1 start to this season. While this year did not go the way the Packers had planned, McCarthy had plenty of success there, compiling a 125-77-2 record in the regular season and a 10-8 record in the playoffs. He led the Packers to eight straight postseason appearances (2009-2016) and a win over the Steelers in Super Bowl XLV.

An offensive-minded coach, McCarthy has been criticized for his inability to adapt to the modern-day NFL. However, with the Jets set on contending in 2019, McCarthy would bring credibility that a rookie head coach would not, as well as a winning culture. McCarthy also has experience developing young quarterbacks, something that should be a requirement for the Jets job as Sam Darnold enters his second season.

At this stage in the game, it’s too early to make any kind of predictions as to who will end up taking control of the Jets. As Garafolo noted, McCarthy could decide to take a year off. Other options could also emerge in the coming weeks and months.

For now, however, expect to see McCarthy linked to Jets more and more.