Every bit of information that comes out about how the New York Jets fired head coach Robert Saleh is fascinating. The team unexpectedly parted with the coach after nearly four years.
The Robert Saleh era in New York ended in a very odd way.
Saleh was fired Tuesday – very unexpectedly – as the Jets head coach. The 45-year-old was hired in 2021 after serving as the linebackers coach for the San Francisco 49ers froom 2017 to 2020.
The Jets aren’t having a spectacular season, but Saleh reportedly had no idea his job was that much one to be worried about.
The coach showed up to the Jets facility ready to prepare for the team’s upcoming game against the Buffalo Blls. He was then told he was fired and team security escorted him out of the building. Saleh was not able to meet with players at any point on Tuesday, either.
The decision to oust Saleh apparently came from ownership and players are “shocked,” according to Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz.
Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will now take over as interim head coach, the team announced on social media.
“He is a tough coach who has the respect of the coaches and players on this team,” team owner Woody Johnson said in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter. “I believe he along with the the coaches on this staff can get the most out of our talented team and attain the goal we established this offseason.”
Saleh also told FOX Sports’ Jay Glazer that he was “blindsided” by the news.
“This was not an easy decision, but we are not where we should be given our expectations,” Johnson’s statement said, adding “I believe now is the best time for us to move in a different direction.”
The Jets were 20-36 under Saleh. They are currently 2-3 and second in the AFC East behind the 3-2 Bills.
