Was Aaron Rodgers Behind Robert Saleh Firing On New York Jets?

The New York Jets’ decision to fire head coach Robert Saleh just five games into his fourth season is a bold and shocking move, especially given the unusual circumstances surrounding his departure. While Saleh’s 20-36 record might raise questions about his future, this move reeks of desperation, and one way or another, it all traces back to Aaron Rodgers—the quarterback the Jets banked on to take them to the NFL’s promised land.

The Rodgers Effect

Aaron Rodgers couldn’t fire himself, nor would he likely call for the ousting of Nathaniel Hackett, his hand-picked offensive coordinator and longtime friend. Yet, when it comes to Saleh, Rodgers’ influence is hard to ignore. While team owner Woody Johnson technically pulled the plug on Saleh, Rodgers' presence looms large. In recent years, the Jets have been operating under what can only be called "A-Rod Rules," with Rodgers wielding considerable influence over the team’s operations.

Johnson may claim that the decision to fire Saleh was his alone, but it’s doubtful that he’d have made such a dramatic move without ensuring that Rodgers, the centerpiece of the Jets’ hopes, was on board. After all, if Rodgers wasn’t in favor of the firing, would Saleh really have been shown the door so abruptly?

A Dramatic Exit: Saleh Escorted Out by Security

What makes this situation even more jarring is how Saleh’s firing played out. Moments after the news broke, Saleh was escorted out of the Jets’ facility by security personnel, a move that underscores the abruptness and cold nature of the decision. The image of Saleh, once hailed as the team’s future, being walked out of the building adds an uncomfortable layer to an already shocking firing.

The scene wasn’t typical for NFL head coaches. Normally, even in cases of dismissal, there’s some semblance of decorum—perhaps a final meeting with the staff or a handshake with ownership. But for Saleh, the end came swiftly and without ceremony, further emphasizing the desperation of the organization and the power dynamics at play.

Hackett Stays, Saleh Goes

At a meeting on Tuesday morning, Saleh informed the coaching staff that passing game coordinator Todd Downing would take over as the game-day play-caller, with offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett being demoted. Hackett wasn’t fired outright, but it was left to him whether he wanted to stay on the staff. However, shortly after this meeting, Saleh himself was informed that he was being fired as head coach.

Perhaps the most puzzling part of this midseason firing is the fact that Hackett, whose offense ranks 27th in total yards, remains employed while Saleh, a defensive-minded coach, is gone. Hackett’s brief, disastrous stint as head coach of the Denver Broncos in 2022 seemed like a career killer. Yet, he found redemption—or at least an opportunity for redemption—by reuniting with Rodgers in New York.

The plan, however, has not worked. The offense is in shambles, and Rodgers, coming off a torn Achilles tendon, hasn’t been able to shake off the rust that comes with a serious injury and age. The rhythm and precision that once made Rodgers a four-time MVP have been notably absent, as evidenced by his three interceptions and failed last-gasp drive in the recent loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

Yet, while Hackett keeps his job, Saleh, who built a championship-caliber defense that ranks second in the NFL, is left paying the price. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has been promoted to interim head coach, and it seems likely the defense will continue to excel. But without fixing the offensive issues, the Jets’ chances of turning the season around look slim.

Saleh’s Firing: A Result of Unmet Expectations

It’s clear that Saleh was fired because the Jets haven’t been winning big with the pieces they’ve assembled—particularly the quarterback they acquired to be the game-changer. The Jets went all-in on Rodgers, bringing in his coordinator, a new offensive line coach, and even adding elite talent like pass rusher Haason Reddick. However, with Rodgers’ lackluster performances and a sputtering offense, Saleh was the one left holding the bag.

Jets fans might ask: Was Saleh supposed to be undefeated at this point? The team is 2-3, which, while underwhelming, is not season-ending, especially considering their defensive strength. Yet Johnson, seemingly impatient and influenced by Rodgers’ vision for the team, decided to make the move now rather than later.

The Jets' Perennial Dysfunction

Firing a head coach midseason is out of character for Johnson. In his 25-year reign as owner, Johnson has allowed previous coaches to finish out disastrous seasons. Todd Bowles, Rex Ryan, and Adam Gase were all given the opportunity to complete their respective seasons despite poor performances. But now, Johnson has flipped the script, choosing to fire Saleh while the season is still salvageable.

It’s hard to believe that this sudden move wasn’t driven, at least in part, by the strained relationship between Saleh and Rodgers. There were visible signs of tension, most notably the icy glare Rodgers gave Saleh during their win over the Patriots. Perhaps that was the tipping point for Johnson, who has spoken about the need for “new energy and positivity.”

Aaron Rodgers Today On The Pat McAfee Show

"It's a tough business... I love coach Saleh. We have a very solid relationship... He's a big reason why I came to the Jets."

The Road Ahead

The Jets’ decision to stick with the status quo on offense while removing Saleh raises serious questions about the direction of the team. Rodgers, at 40 years old, hasn’t been the savior the Jets hoped for, and with the offense struggling in nearly every facet—whether it’s the 3.6 yards per carry on the ground or the porous pass protection—it’s clear that changes are needed. Trading for a receiver like Davante Adams might help, but without better blocking and a more balanced offense, the Jets’ issues run much deeper than one personnel move.

So why fire Saleh now, when the Jets could still turn their season around? With their elite defense, they’re in a position to challenge for the AFC East crown if they can get the offense moving. It seems the answer lies in the belief that Rodgers and Hackett, together, can ignite the resurgence that the Jets expected when they made their blockbuster trade for the future Hall of Fame quarterback. But Jets fans know better than to hold their breath—decades of broken promises have made them skeptical of quick fixes.

In the end, Saleh’s firing, particularly the way it was handled, may bring temporary energy to the team, but the dysfunction that has plagued the Jets for years seems far from over. One way or another, it all traces back to Aaron Rodgers, the quarterback they were convinced would lead them to glory but has so far been unable to deliver. And as Saleh walked out the door, escorted by security, the chaos surrounding the Jets' future only deepened.

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Source: Yahoo Via USA Today

Photo Credit: NFL