Many fans and analysts took to social media Tuesday, suggesting that quarterback Aaron Rodgers played a key role in the firing of New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh. This dramatic decision came amidst a disappointing season for the Jets, who currently sit at 2-3 after a recent two-game losing streak, including a tough 23-17 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in London.
ESPN was quick to break the news about Saleh’s dismissal, with Adam Schefter reporting that defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has been named the interim head coach. The move appears to be a response not just to poor performance, but also an indication of the growing influence Rodgers has within the organization.
In the aftermath, social media was rife with reactions indicating that Rodgers’ influence may have led to the coaching shakeup. Jeremy Fowler tweeted about the lack of alignment between quarterback and coach, while others echoed the sentiment that Saleh’s exit was a direct consequence of Rodgers’ powerful presence on the team. Such strong reactions highlight the ongoing narrative that at 40 years old, the veteran quarterback maintains immense sway over the franchise.
Despite the turmoil, Saleh’s track record can’t be overlooked. He coached the Jets for parts of four seasons, compiling a 20-36 record and never reaching the playoffs. Much of Saleh’s tenure was marked by setbacks, notably due to poor quarterback play during his first three years when the team had a record of 4-13, 7-10, and 7-10. The pivotal decision to draft Zach Wilson second overall in the 2021 NFL Draft has been widely criticized, as it squandered opportunities for the Jets to capitalize on a defense that was among the top in the league.
After trading for Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers prior to the 2023 season, expectations soared. Fans were hopeful that with the legendary QB at the helm, the Jets would finally shake the playoff drought that has lasted since 2010. However, disaster struck early when Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury on the very first offensive drive of the season, throwing the team into chaos.
Since then, the Jets have juggled quarterbacks, cycling through Wilson, Tim Boyle, and Trevor Siemian, but none have been able to carry the team to victory. In fact, the offense has struggled mightily, ranking 27th in total offense and 25th in scoring offense, averaging just 18.6 points per game. A particularly low point came in a 10-9 loss to the Denver Broncos, where the offense could only muster nine points.
With Rodgers returning to the field, the Jets entered the 2024 season with renewed hope. Yet, it’s clear he has not been himself, completing 61.0% of his passes with 1,093 yards, seven touchdowns, and four interceptions. The pressure is mounting on Rodgers and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett to rejuvenate the team’s lackluster offense.
As scrutiny surrounding Rodgers and Saleh intensified, questions about their relationship grew louder. An awkward moment during the Week 3 victory against the Patriots, where Rodgers seemingly shoved Saleh during a hug, led to speculation about their rapport. While both attempted to downplay the incident, it did little to quell the whispers about a fractured working relationship.
- **Total Record under Saleh**: 20-36
- **Current Season Record**: 2-3
- **Scoring Offense Rank**: 25th (18.6 points per game)
- **Total Defense Rank**: 2nd
- **Strongest Argument for Keeping Saleh**: Excelling defense, ranked 5th in scoring defense
Even with the offensive struggles, the Jets’ defense remains stellar, ranking second in total defense and fifth in scoring defense. This surprising strength was often cited as a key reason to retain Saleh amidst calls for change.
Now, with Jeff Ulbrich stepping in as the interim head coach, all eyes will be on the Jets’ offense to see if the combination of Rodgers and Hackett can finally find their rhythm. It’s a critical juncture for the team as they seek to salvage their season. Will they rise to the occasion? The Jets now face a pivotal moment, and how they respond could dictate the direction of the franchise moving forward.
In the competitive world of the NFL, coaching decisions often ripple throughout an organization. As the Jets embark on this new chapter, one can’t help but wonder: Is this the change they desperately needed, or just another step in a long line of frustrations? The answers await in the coming weeks.
