The 2024 NFL season started off with high expectations for Robert Saleh as the head coach of the New York Jets. However, after a disappointing 2-3 start and apparent tension with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Saleh found himself on the hot seat. And on Tuesday morning, the Jets made the difficult decision to fire him, making him the first head coach to be ousted this season.
In a statement, team owner Woody Johnson announced, “(Defensive coordinator) Jeff Ulbrich will serve as our Interim Head Coach for the remainder of the season. He is a tough coach who has the respect of the coaches and players on this team. I believe he along with the coaches on this staff can get the most out of our talented team and attain the goals we established this offseason.”
Saleh’s tenure with the Jets was disappointing, to say the least, with a 20-36 record in three-plus seasons. Despite his reputation for strong defenses, Saleh struggled to overcome issues with quarterback play. From the underwhelming performance of Zach Wilson, the No. 2 pick in the 2021 draft, to the injury woes of Aaron Rodgers, Saleh couldn’t catch a break.
After Rodgers’ arrival in 2023 brought renewed hope to Jets fans, last year’s season-ending injury and a turbulent start to the 2024 season proved to be too much for Johnson to ignore. The team’s recent loss to the Minnesota Vikings in London highlighted ongoing struggles on offense, with Rodgers’ timing off, an ineffective run game, and a lack of productivity from the receiving corps.
In fact, speculation has been brewing that the Jets should pursue a trade for Davante Adams, the disgruntled wide receiver from the Las Vegas Raiders. Adams, a five-time Pro Bowler during his time with Rodgers in Green Bay, could provide a much-needed boost to the struggling offense.
Despite the tough decision to part ways with Saleh, Rodgers expressed his admiration for the former head coach, stating, “(W)e’re really good friends. We enjoy each other.” It’s clear that Saleh’s departure marks the end of an era for the Jets, but the team is hopeful that Ulbrich can steer them in the right direction for the remainder of the season. As the Jets search for stability and success, only time will tell if this coaching change will bring about the desired results.