The New York Jets’ turbulent season has taken another unexpected turn with the firing of head coach Robert Saleh and his surprising decision to join the Green Bay Packers in a temporary coaching role. The move has sparked questions about the Jets’ management and their handling of the coaching situation, especially given the team’s continued struggles under interim leadership. Saleh’s departure, viewed by some as premature, has left many wondering if the Jets may have acted too quickly.
A Sudden Exit
Saleh, who was fired after just five games this season, had been at the helm of the Jets since 2021. Despite a challenging tenure with a record of 20-36, his defensive prowess, especially with the turnaround of the Jets’ defense, had earned him respect across the league. However, the Jets’ struggles on offense, particularly with inconsistent quarterback play, ultimately led to his dismissal.
The Jets’ decision to part ways with Saleh came as a surprise to some, as ownership appeared to go around general manager Joe Douglas in making the call. The firing has raised concerns about internal disagreements and whether the team was too quick to pull the trigger on Saleh, who inherited a team with significant roster issues, including the disappointing performance of quarterback Zach Wilson
Saleh’s Quick Landing in Green Bay
Just days after his departure from the Jets, Saleh found himself in a new, albeit temporary, role with the Green Bay Packers. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, who has a close personal relationship with Saleh, extended the invitation for him to assist the team. LaFleur and Saleh have a history together dating back to their time as graduate assistants at Central Michigan, and the Packers’ head coach has credited Saleh with helping him break into the NFL coaching ranks.
While Saleh’s role with the Packers is expected to be short-term, it has already raised eyebrows. LaFleur indicated that Saleh would help out in various aspects of coaching for the week, providing valuable insight, particularly on the defensive side, where he has built a strong reputation.
Jets’ Locker Room Reactions and Interim Struggles
Saleh’s departure has not gone over smoothly in the Jets’ locker room. According to reports, several Jets players feel that the decision to fire Saleh was hasty, especially given the team’s struggles under interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich. Since Saleh’s exit, the Jets have failed to improve, leading to growing frustration within the team. Players and analysts alike are beginning to question whether the management made a rash decision by not giving Saleh more time to turn things around.
The Jets’ offensive woes, particularly with Zach Wilson, had plagued the team during Saleh’s tenure, but the defensive improvements he orchestrated were a bright spot. Now, with the team continuing to underperform, fans and insiders are left to wonder if Saleh’s dismissal was more a reflection of broader organizational dysfunction than his coaching abilities.
Questions About the Jets’ Future
The firing of Robert Saleh and the decision to bring in Jeff Ulbrich as interim head coach has left the Jets at a crossroads. Saleh’s quick transition to a coaching role with the Packers has added to the uncertainty surrounding the Jets’ future. The team is still searching for stability, particularly in leadership and quarterback play, and Saleh’s firing has only amplified the spotlight on Jets owner Woody Johnson’s decision-making.
For now, Saleh’s temporary position with the Packers may offer him a chance to reset and possibly re-enter the head coaching ranks in the near future. As for the Jets, their season remains in jeopardy, and the turmoil within the organization shows no signs of easing.
