After reaching the AFC Championship Game for the second straight year, the New York Jets quietly extended the contract of offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer last offseason, ESPNNewYork.com has learned.

The embattled Schottenheimer is under contract through at least the 2012 season, meaning any decision on his future will involve financial considerations. Typically, the Jets try to avoid lame-duck situations with their coordinators and assistant coaches.

Schottenheimer has come under fire because the Jets (5-5) could miss the playoffs for the first time since 2008. They have dropped two straight, having scored only 29 points in those two games, and are ranked 22nd in total offense. This is the first time in his tenure that Schottenheimer has had the same quarterback, Mark Sanchez, for three straight seasons.

Schottenheimer has been the Jets' coordinator since 2006, when he was hired by former coach Eric Mangini. Rex Ryan retained Schottenheimer when he was hired in 2009 to replace Mangini.

In their first five seasons under Schottenheimer, the Jets ranked as low as 26th in total offense (2007) and as high as 11th (2010). In scoring, they've ranked as low as 25th (2007) and as high as ninth (2008).

Rich Cimini covers the Jets for ESPNNewYork.com.