Robert Saleh was reportedly escorted out of the New York Jets' team facility following his dismissal as head coach on Tuesday, according to multiple sources. His firing marks the second time in recent years that the Jets have parted ways with a head coach, with Adam Gase being the last to go. Unlike Saleh, Gase was not reportedly removed by security after his 2020 dismissal.
At the time of publication, the Jets have not commented on the situation. However, team owner Woody Johnson issued a statement shortly after the news broke, confirming that defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich would take over as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
"This morning, I informed Robert Saleh that he will no longer serve as the head coach of the Jets. I thanked him for his dedication over the past three-and-a-half years and wished him and his family well as they move forward," Johnson's statement read.
"This was a difficult decision, but we are not where we need to be based on our expectations. Now is the time to move in a different direction. Jeff Ulbrich will take over as interim head coach. He’s a respected leader, and I believe he, along with our coaching staff, can help get the most out of our talented team and achieve the goals we set this offseason."
Following his departure, Saleh reportedly plans to take a vacation with his family before exploring defensive coordinator opportunities during the next hiring cycle, as noted by the San Francisco Chronicle.
His firing comes a little over a day after the Jets’ loss to the undefeated Minnesota Vikings in London. Despite having a top-five defense, the Jets' offense has struggled mightily, ranking 25th in points scored and 27th in yards gained. Even with Aaron Rodgers back under center after an Achilles injury last season, the offense has failed to click, with Rodgers putting up 1,093 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and four interceptions through the first several games.
Saleh, hired as the Jets' head coach in 2021 after a successful stint as the San Francisco 49ers' defensive coordinator, leaves New York with a 20-36 record. His time with the Jets was marred by inconsistent quarterback play, particularly from 2021 third-overall pick Zach Wilson, who struggled across his first three seasons before being benched. The team’s offensive woes deepened when Rodgers was injured in the first game of last season.
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