In a major shake-up, the New York Jets have parted ways with head coach Robert Saleh just five games into the season. Jets owner Woody Johnson announced the decision early Tuesday, signaling a desire for change amidst underperformance.
“This was not an easy decision, but we are not where we should be given our expectations, and I believe now is the best time for us to move in a different direction,” Johnson said in a statement.
The move comes after a rocky start to the 2024 season, where the Jets have stumbled to a 2-3 record, struggling to meet lofty preseason expectations. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will step in as the interim head coach for the rest of the season.
“He is a tough coach who has the respect of the coaches and players on this team,” Johnson added, expressing confidence in Ulbrich’s leadership going forward.
The #Jets have made a stunning decision, firing coach Robert Saleh.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 8, 2024
Saleh’s Tenure Marked by High Expectations, Disappointments
Saleh, who was in his fourth season with the Jets, arrived with promise, especially after the franchise landed star quarterback Aaron Rodgers in a blockbuster trade ahead of the 2023-2024 season. Hopes were high that the veteran quarterback would lead the team to postseason success. However, those dreams were derailed when Rodgers suffered a season-ending injury in his first game as a Jet, plunging the team into quarterback uncertainty.
Despite the setback, Saleh managed to guide the team to a 7-10 record last year. Rodgers’ return at the start of this season provided a sense of optimism. But after a blowout loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1, the Jets bounced back with two wins only to drop back-to-back contests in Week 4 and Week 5, leaving them below .500.
Ulbrich Takes Over Amid Critical Stretch
Jeff Ulbrich, who has served as the Jets’ defensive coordinator since 2021, steps into the interim head coach role. Ulbrich is known for his hard-nosed coaching style and the respect he’s garnered from both players and staff. As the Jets try to salvage their season, Ulbrich will lead the team against the Buffalo Bills on Monday in a pivotal AFC East matchup.
The pressure is on for the Jets to turn things around. With Rodgers back under center and the season still within reach, Ulbrich will have to inspire quick improvements to avoid another lost year for the franchise.
As the Jets move forward, it remains to be seen if this change will spark the results the franchise desperately needs or if the turbulence will continue.
