Former NFL head coach Robert Saleh could be on the verge of making a surprising return to the sidelines. After being fired by the New York Jets last October, Saleh is now in the mix for a head coaching position with a rival team. This potential opportunity comes as the Jacksonville Jaguars seek a new leader following a dismal 3-14 season.
Jacksonville Jaguars Interested in Saleh
On Tuesday, the Jaguars announced that they have requested an interview with Saleh for their head coaching vacancy. This decision follows the firing of Doug Pederson on Black Monday, a day notorious for coaching changes across the league. Despite the coaching shake-up, Jacksonville has opted to retain general manager Trent Baalke, which raises questions about the direction of the franchise moving forward.
Saleh is one of eight candidates on the Jaguars’ list, which also includes notable names like Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and the team’s defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. This diverse pool of candidates reflects the Jaguars’ desire to find a coach who can revitalize their struggling franchise.
Saleh’s Coaching Background
Saleh’s coaching journey has been marked by both challenges and successes. He joined the Jets in 2021 after a successful stint as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, where he helped lead the team to a Super Bowl appearance. However, his time with the Jets was less fruitful, as he posted a record of 20-36 before being let go after a 2-3 start this season.
The Jets struggled significantly after Saleh’s departure, with the defense continuing to underperform. Under interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich, the team lost nine of their last twelve games, and the offense finished the season ranked 24th in both points and yardage. These disappointing results have left many wondering if a fresh start with a new head coach could turn things around for the franchise.
Current Role with Green Bay Packers
Currently, Saleh is working as a consultant with the Green Bay Packers, where he is preparing for their playoff run. The Packers are set to face the Philadelphia Eagles in the Wild Card round, and Saleh’s experience is expected to provide valuable insights as they navigate the postseason. Head coach Matt LaFleur has praised Saleh’s contributions, highlighting how his perspective can help identify vulnerabilities in opposing defenses.
Saleh’s role with the Packers has allowed him to broaden his understanding of offensive strategies, an essential skill for any head coach. LaFleur noted, “It’s a good opportunity for him to learn and also for him to help us, give us perspective on how teams might see us.” This experience could be invaluable as he considers a return to a head coaching position.
Previous Experience with the Jaguars
Interestingly, Saleh has a history with the Jaguars, having served as their linebackers coach from 2014 to 2016. This familiarity with the organization could work in his favor as he seeks to re-establish himself in the NFL coaching ranks. His earlier roles with the Houston Texans and Seattle Seahawks provided him with a solid foundation in coaching, making him a well-rounded candidate for the Jaguars’ head coach position.
If the Jaguars do not hire Saleh, it’s important to note that he remains a highly sought-after coordinator in the league. His reputation as a defensive mastermind has made him a hot name this offseason, and many teams could benefit from his expertise.
Competition for the Head Coaching Position
The Jaguars are also considering other candidates for their head coaching vacancy, including offensive coordinators Kellen Moore (Eagles), Liam Coen (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Todd Monken (Baltimore Ravens), and Joe Brady (Buffalo Bills), as well as Las Vegas Raiders’ defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. This competitive field underscores the urgency for the Jaguars to make a strategic choice that will set the tone for the future of their franchise.
As the search for a new head coach unfolds, Saleh’s experience and previous success could give him an edge over other candidates. His ability to connect with players and develop a strong defensive strategy will be critical in winning over the Jaguars’ decision-makers.
Looking Ahead
For Saleh, the possibility of returning to a head coaching role is an exciting prospect. His time with the Jets, while fraught with challenges, has provided him with valuable lessons that he can apply in his next opportunity. As he prepares to meet with the Jaguars, the football world will be watching closely to see if he can turn the tide for a struggling franchise.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, coaching changes can lead to significant shifts in team dynamics. Will Saleh be the one to help the Jaguars rise from the ashes of a disappointing season? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the passion for the game and the desire to lead a team to success burns brightly within him. As the offseason progresses, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see where Saleh’s journey takes him next.
