In a shocking turn of events, the New York Jets have parted ways with head coach Robert Saleh, as announced on Tuesday. After a rocky start to the 2024 season, with just two wins and three losses—including a disappointing 23-17 defeat to the Minnesota Vikings in London—Saleh has become the NFL’s first coach to be fired this season.
Jets chairman Woody Johnson shared the difficult decision in a statement, saying, “This was not an easy decision, but we are not where we should be given our expectations. I believe now is the best time for us to move in a different direction.”
A Journey Marked by Struggles
Saleh, who took the helm in 2021, leaves behind a 20-36 regular season record and no playoff appearances in his three-plus seasons with the team. Known for his time as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers under the legendary Kyle Shanahan, Saleh made history as the NFL’s first Muslim American head coach and the third Arab American to lead an NFL team.
Taking over a struggling franchise, Saleh faced immense challenges, particularly at the quarterback position. His inaugural season saw the Jets finish with a disappointing 4-13 record, but it was notable for being the youngest roster in the league. The Jets made history as only the second team since the AFL-NFL merger to have rookies lead in passing, rushing, and receiving yards.
The following year brought some hope, as the team improved to a 7-10 record, largely thanks to standout rookies Garrett Wilson and Sauce Gardner, who went on to win Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. However, the quarterback situation remained turbulent. Zach Wilson, the second overall pick in the 2021 draft, struggled mightily, alternating between starting roles with backups Mike White and Joe Flacco.
The Aaron Rodgers Gamble
The Jets’ hopes soared when they traded for four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers, setting high expectations for the 2023 season. But disaster struck as Rodgers suffered a ruptured left Achilles tendon just four snaps into his debut, sidelining him for the entire season. With Wilson back in the spotlight, the offense continued to flounder, even as the defense thrived, finishing as the fourth and third-ranked units in the league during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, respectively.
Entering the 2024 season, Saleh was on thin ice, with the Big Apple demanding a playoff run. Unfortunately, the Jets have stumbled out of the gate, raising alarms among fans and management alike.
A New Chapter Begins
In a move towards revitalization, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will step in as interim head coach, as confirmed by Johnson. “He is a tough coach who has the respect of the coaches and players on this team,” Johnson stated. “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.”
As the Jets enter this new chapter, the question looms large: can Ulbrich steer the team back on course? With high expectations and a talented roster, the Jets still have a chance to turn their season around. But the clock is ticking, and the pressure is on in the Big Apple.
