The news of Robert Saleh’s sudden firing from the New York Jets has raised eyebrows, and Aaron Rodgers, unsurprisingly, is at the center of speculation. Despite Rodgers’ claims that he wasn’t involved, fans and analysts can’t help but suspect that the 4x MVP knew about the decision beforehand. Rodgers took to The Pat McAfee Show to dismiss rumors of his influence, saying he doesn’t hold the kind of sway people think he does and emphasizing his respect for Saleh. Yet, even former teammate TJ Lang isn’t buying it, suggesting that there’s no way team owner Woody Johnson made the call without at least consulting Rodgers.
The firing followed a painful Jets loss to the Vikings in London, one that might have been especially sour for Johnson, who likely hosted his UK friends only to watch the team fall flat. It’s no secret that Saleh’s 20-36 record didn’t inspire confidence, but his defensive strengths were one of the few positives for the team. So, cutting him loose at this point feels abrupt and, to some, questionable.
The timing is also raising suspicions. Rodgers spoke with Johnson about his injuries on Monday night, and Saleh was dismissed the very next day. For fans, it’s easy to connect the dots, though Rodgers insists he was blindsided like everyone else. He expressed disappointment in the public’s assumptions, insisting that his call with Johnson was purely about his injury and that his friendship with Saleh was genuine. “I resent any of those accusations because they’re patently false,” Rodgers said, addressing the speculation.
Whether or not Rodgers had a role in Saleh’s exit, the situation has undoubtedly hit him hard. Teammate Tyler Conklin believes Rodgers “took this harder than anybody,” sympathizing with how Saleh’s family might be affected. What’s your take? Did Rodgers really have no clue, or is he playing it cool? Let us know your thoughts.
