Robert Saleh
New York Jets owner Woody Johnson and interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich both declined to comment on the status of offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett during a press conference on Tuesday. The ambiguity surrounding Hackett’s future comes just days after the Jets’ disappointing loss to the Minnesota Vikings Robert Saleh.
While neither Johnson nor Ulbrich explicitly stated that Hackett’s job is in jeopardy, their refusal to confirm his security has fueled speculation about his potential dismissal. Hackett has faced criticism for the team’s offensive struggles, and his play-calling has been questioned.
The Jets’ decision to fire head coach Robert Saleh and appoint Ulbrich as interim head coach has created a sense of uncertainty within the organization. The team’s performance in the coming weeks could significantly impact Hackett’s future with the Jets team fired head coach Robert Saleh.
Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich expressed his belief that the New York Jets’ current coaching staff is capable of delivering a strong performance in their upcoming Monday Night Football game against the Buffalo Bills. However, he acknowledged that changes within the staff could occur, potentially including adjustments to play-calling responsibilities.
While Ulbrich did not anticipate any immediate staff releases, he indicated that the team would evaluate the current structure and roles. This evaluation could lead to potential shifts in responsibilities, such as assigning play-calling duties to a different coach like passing game coordinator Todd Downing.
The Jets’ performance in the coming weeks will likely play a significant role in determining whether any changes are necessary to improve the team’s fortunes.
How the Jets Found Themselves Facing Job Security Questions
After the New York Jets’ shaky start to the season, team owner Woody Johnson announced the firing of head coach Robert Saleh, just five games into his fourth season. This decision came as a surprise, especially since the Jets weren’t at rock bottom; they held a record of 2-3. In comparison, coaches like Dan Quinn and Jay Gruden were dismissed during their respective 0-5 seasons in 2020 and 2019, while Matt Rhule was let go after a 1-4 start in 2022.
Johnson expressed his belief that the Jets, despite their record, possessed significant talent and potential. “This is one of the most talented teams that has ever been assembled by the New York Jets,” he stated. The former U.S. ambassador to the UK decided to make a change before the team’s prime-time home game following their London trip. He explained that he felt a new direction was necessary to maximize the team’s chances of success this season.
“This is probably the best team I’ve had in 25 years,” Johnson continued during a conference call. He emphasized that appointing Jeff Ulbrich as the interim head coach was a strategic move to unlock the team’s potential and aim for the playoffs.
Robert Saleh, who had been hired in 2021 with promises of multiple championships, ended his tenure with a disappointing 20-36 record and no playoff appearances. The Jets have now experienced a 13-year playoff drought, the longest in the NFL, yet entered this season with Super Bowl aspirations, largely due to the addition of quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Robert Saleh, who had been hired in 2021
The Jets’ season began on a shaky note with a 32-19 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, a game that could be chalked up to facing the defending NFC champions. However, their subsequent 10-9 defeat to the Denver Broncos was harder to justify, especially given the hefty price they paid to acquire Rodgers, who unfortunately missed the season due to an Achilles tear.
The situation worsened in London, where the Jets faced the Minnesota Vikings, known for their strong defense. In that game, Rodgers threw three interceptions, including a pick-six, further complicating the team’s hopes. While he managed to connect with top receiver Garrett Wilson for 101 yards and a touchdown, his performance was marred by inaccuracies, completing only 13 of 22 passes to Wilson, with all throws being short-range, according to Next Gen Stats. Additionally, the running game, featuring talented backs like Breece Hall and rookie Braelon Allen, could muster only 36 rushing yards, amplifying the urgency for change within the organization.