The New York Jets fired head coach Robert Saleh after a slow start to the 2024 NFL season, dropping their record to 2-3. Saleh, who was hired after an impressive stint as the San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator, was let go following a 20-36 record with the Jets over three-plus seasons. Despite turning the Jets defense into one of the best in the league, the team struggled on offense, ranking near the bottom in both yards and points during Saleh’s tenure.
The decision to fire Saleh was prompted by the Jets’ inability to consistently win and meet expectations under his leadership. Jets owner Woody Johnson stated that the team was not where it should be, leading to the decision to move in a different direction. Saleh was dealt a tough hand at quarterback, with the team starting six different players at the position during his time in New York. Despite hiring two different offensive coordinators and having an upgraded offensive line, the Jets’ offensive struggles persisted under Saleh.
There appeared to be tension between Saleh and quarterback Aaron Rodgers during their time together, with Rodgers missing minicamp and the two having some awkward exchanges early in the 2024 season. However, Rodgers downplayed any rift between them, attributing it to outside forces attempting to create division. With Saleh now out as head coach, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is set to take over on an interim basis, as the Jets look to spark a turnaround in a competitive AFC East race.
Saleh’s coaching record with the Jets was a disappointing 20-36, with no winning seasons during his tenure. His winning percentage of .357 ranks 181st all-time among 201 qualifiers and was only better than that of the New Orleans Saints’ Dennis Allen among active coaches. Saleh was under contract with the Jets through the 2025 NFL season, with a deal worth $5 million per year, tying him as the 12th-highest-paid coach in the NFL entering the 2024 season.
The decision to fire Saleh reflects the Jets’ desire to make a change after struggling to find success under his leadership. With a roster that includes talented players like Rodgers, the team has high expectations and aims to be a true playoff contender. By parting ways with Saleh and promoting Ulbrich, the Jets hope to turn their season around and compete in what is shaping up to be a competitive AFC East race. Despite Saleh’s success on the defensive side of the ball, the inability to consistently produce on offense ultimately led to his departure from the team.
