Aaron Rodgers Claims No Role In Jets’ Decision To Fire Head Coach Robert Saleh

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers firmly denied having a say in the Jets’ decision to fire head coach Robert Saleh Wednesday. Rodgers, who has struggled to kickstart New York’s offense in two straight losses, said that his rumored influence on team operations is exaggerated.

“As far as any of the ridiculous allegations out there, I’m not gonna spend more than one sentence in response to it,” Rodgers told Pat McAfee during his weekly appearance on McAfee’s show. “And that is that I resent any of those accusations because they are patently false. It’s interesting the amount of power that people think that I have, which I don’t. I love Robert.”

Rumors surrounding Saleh’s sudden termination Tuesday have run rampant this week and often contradict one another. Some have claimed that Saleh was trying to convince the front office to part ways with offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, who Rodgers then protected. Others claim that Rodgers’ personal differences with Saleh conflicted with the freedom he expected when he signed with the team in 2023.

The official story, one corroborated by all parties to this point, is that owner Woody Johnson fired Saleh due to frustrations with the team’s 2-3 start. 

“This is one of the most talented teams that has ever been assembled by the New York Jets,” Johnson said in a statement. “I wanted to give this team the most opportunity to win this season. I feel that we had to go in a different direction, and that’s why I did that today. This change, the change that we made today, that I made, I believe will bring new energy and new positivity that will lead to more wins, starting now.”

Even beyond the speculation concerning Rodgers’ involvement, reactions to Saleh’s firing have been mixed. Many fans point out that firing Saleh, who primarily ran the team’s defense, does not solve any of the team’s issues. The defense remains elite while the offense struggles to produce. Those calling for Hackett, the offensive coordinator often blamed for the team’s bland and uninspired offense, to be fired instead were left confused and frustrated by Saleh’s removal.

The circumstances of Saleh’s termination have also proved controversial. The former head coach was escorted out by security and was not permitted to interact with players. Star cornerback Sauce Gardner didn’t help matters when he told reporters Thursday that he and many of his teammates still feel like they’re playing for Saleh.

Despite the shocking circumstances, Saleh released an even farewell statement Wednesday. 

“To all of the players, I truly love and appreciate every single one of you. The character of the men in the locker room made coaching you guys the ultimate privilege. Through all the ups and downs, each and every one of you showed up every day and attacked every moment.”

In 56 games as the Jets’ head coach, Saleh earned a 20-36 record. Jets quarterbacks only threw for 300 or more yards in nine of those games. Three passers did so multiple times: Zach Wilson, Mike White and Joe Flacco.