Head coach Robert Saleh of the New York Jets was fired on Tuesday by owner Woody Johnson. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is now the interim head coach. The Jets are currently 2-3 for the season with their star quarterback Aaron Rodgers, a disappointing outcome for fans and Jets employees alike. The firing comes after their recent loss in London against the Minnesota Vikings, in which many believe Rodgers did not meet expectations on the field.
Saleh was escorted out of the building on the day of his departure and was disallowed from talking to any of his players. According to Bleacher Report, Jets defensive players were “shocked” by Johnson’s decision to fire Saleh. Offensive tackle Morgan Moses claimed it “caught a lot of people off guard.”
Saleh, shocked by the sudden change, released a statement on Wednesday regarding his termination. “To the Jets organization, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with so many incredible people. I will always be appreciative of the love and support from everyone at 1 Jets Drive.”
Many have attributed Saleh’s termination to Aaron Rodgers, going as far as blaming him completely for the loss and assuming involvement. Rodgers recent performances during games have disappointed fans, but Johnson reassured that the decision to fire Saleh was solely his.
On Wednesday, Rodgers spoke out about his experience with Saleh during his weekly appearance on the Pat McAfee Show to clear up any rumors of his involvement. “As far as any of the ridiculous allegations out there, I’m not going to spend more than one sentence in response to it, and that is that I resent any of those accusations because they are patently false,” he said.
Saleh was hired in 2021 by Johnson and made big promises of Super Bowl grandeur. He finished his career in New York with a record of 20-36 and no playoff appearances. Johnson stands by his decision to fire Saleh and feels the team needs to move in a new direction.
The Jets will play against the Buffalo Bills at 8:15 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 14. Johnson’s decision will be put to the test when the Jets win or lose.
bkeatin1@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of @nyjets, Instagram