Jets Fire Robert Saleh, Appoint Jeff Ulbrich as Interim Head Coach

Oct. 8, 2024, 4:30 p.m. Sports

The New York Jets have made a bold move by firing head coach Robert Saleh and appointing Jeff Ulbrich as the interim head coach. This decision comes after a disappointing start to the season for the Jets, who currently hold a record of 2-7 and are struggling to find consistency on both sides of the ball.

Saleh's tenure with the Jets began in January of 2021, when he was hired as the 20th head coach in franchise history. Saleh came to New York after spending four years as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, where he helped lead the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2020. Many Jets fans were hopeful that Saleh could bring a winning culture to the organization and turn around the team's fortunes on the field.

However, things have not gone according to plan for Saleh and the Jets this season. The team has been plagued by injuries, inconsistent play, and missed opportunities, leading to a string of losses that ultimately cost Saleh his job. The final straw came after a 45-17 loss to the Buffalo Bills in Week 10, where the Jets defense looked overmatched and the offense failed to generate any sustainable momentum.

In a statement released by the team, Jets owner Woody Johnson expressed his gratitude for Saleh's efforts but acknowledged that a change was needed to spark a turnaround. "We thank Robert for his dedication and hard work during his time with the Jets. However, after careful consideration, we have decided to make a change at the head coaching position in the hopes of bringing a new energy and direction to our team," Johnson said.

Taking over for Saleh will be Jeff Ulbrich, who has served as the Jets' defensive coordinator since joining the team in 2021. Ulbrich brings a wealth of experience to the interim head coaching role, having spent over a decade as an assistant coach in the NFL. He previously worked with Saleh in San Francisco, where he served as the 49ers' linebackers coach and assistant head coach.

Ulbrich is known for his fiery demeanor and hands-on approach to coaching, qualities that could help motivate the Jets players and instill a sense of urgency as they look to salvage the remainder of the season. Ulbrich will be tasked with turning around a defense that ranks near the bottom of the league in several key statistical categories, including points allowed per game and total yards allowed.

In a statement following his appointment as interim head coach, Ulbrich expressed his excitement for the opportunity to lead the Jets. "I am grateful for the trust and confidence that the organization has shown in me. I am committed to doing everything in my power to help this team succeed and make our fans proud," Ulbrich said.

It remains to be seen whether Ulbrich can right the ship for the Jets and guide them to a more promising finish to the season. The team faces a tough schedule ahead, with matchups against the Miami Dolphins, Houston Texans, and Philadelphia Eagles looming on the horizon. Jets fans will be watching closely to see if Ulbrich can bring a new energy and direction to the team and help them turn their season around.