When the news broke that the New York Jets had fired head coach Robert Saleh, speculation quickly swirled around Aaron Rodgers, with many suggesting that the star quarterback may have had a hand in the decision. Some rumors even claimed that Rodgers, either through subtle cues or direct requests, pressured team owner Woody Johnson into making the call.
This speculation was fueled by weeks of reported tension between Rodgers and Saleh. Observers pointed to odd interactions on the sidelines and Rodgers’ body language as indicators of discontent. Despite both men publicly asserting that their relationship was intact, skepticism lingered among fans and analysts, who suspected deeper issues were at play.
However, a recent report from NFL insider Jordan Schultz challenges this narrative. Schultz claims that Rodgers and Saleh’s relationship was actually solid, stating that the decision to dismiss Saleh came solely from Woody Johnson without any input from the quarterback. He clarified on X (formerly Twitter), “Robert Saleh’s relationship with Aaron Rodgers was NOT fractured, despite speculation, according to multiple sources. The two were getting along. The firing of Robert Saleh was carried out solely by Woody Johnson this morning.”
Despite this report, some fans remain unconvinced. Questions arose about the credibility of Schultz’s sources, with speculation that the information might have been influenced by Rodgers’ camp to distance the quarterback from the firing. Comments like, “Oh stop it. He doesn’t get fired without Rodgers’ ok,” reflect a widespread belief that it’s improbable for Johnson to make such a significant decision without consulting his star quarterback.
Others noted that Rodgers appeared to wield considerable control over the offense, which might explain any perceived harmony with Saleh. One fan pointed out, “Why would they have problems? Saleh handed Rodgers the offense. Hackett and the rest of the offensive staff need to go too,” emphasizing offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett’s role in the team’s struggles under Rodgers’ direction.
Saleh concluded his tenure with the Jets holding a 20-36 record over three-plus seasons, marred by offensive inconsistency, regardless of who was at quarterback. Expectations were high for the season with Rodgers leading, but his injury in Week 1 left Saleh managing a struggling team reliant on backup quarterback Zach Wilson.
While many anticipated that Saleh would finish out the season, the abrupt nature of his firing has sparked much speculation regarding the underlying reasons. Though his time with the Jets may not have been marked by success, he is expected to land on his feet elsewhere, potentially as a sought-after defensive coordinator or head coach.
As the Jets navigate this transition, they may face further changes, especially if the team fails to improve its 2-3 record. The discussion surrounding Rodgers’ influence in Saleh’s firing is likely to persist, with fans and analysts scrutinizing the quarterback’s role within the organization.
Regardless of who ultimately made the decision, the Jets now face the daunting task of rebuilding their coaching staff and attempting to salvage the remainder of the 2024 season.
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