New York Jets coach Robert Saleh backtracked on Monday after previously suggesting that quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ unique cadence was contributing to the team’s pre-snap penalties.
The Jets were penalized for five false starts during Sunday’s 10-9 home loss to the Denver Broncos.
“We have to find out if we are good enough or if we are ready to handle the whole cadence,” Saleh said after the match. “Pacing wasn’t an issue all over the field. I felt like our team performed pretty well. Obviously, we took a big step back today.”
Rodgers, a four-time league MVP known for generating “free plays” by using signals that put the opponent offsides, said he didn’t think his cadence was the problem.
“I don’t know if we need to make massive adjustments based on outlier plays,” Rodgers said.
“One way to do it,” Rodgers said, “is to adjust his pace. “The other way is to hold them accountable.”
The Jets (2-2) had 13 penalties accepted for 90 yards against Denver, including seven pre-snap flags (five on offense and two on defense).
In a video conference with reporters on Monday, Saleh appeared to backtrack by drawing a distinction between “cadence” and “operation.”
“But from a cadence perspective, that’s part of what makes us who we are, and we will always continue to push the envelope in that regard,” he said.
Rodgers completed 24 of 42 passes for 225 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions and was sacked five times Sunday.
The Jets need to find their rhythm and limit costly penalties if they hope to turn their season around. Fans are eager to see if Saleh and Rodgers can iron out these issues and propel the team forward. Stay tuned!
