Dumsha Wijesinghe JadeTimes Staff
W.G.S.D.Wijesinghe is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Sports News
Former Buffalo Bills assistant coach and NFL pundit Phoebe Schecter expressed her surprise over the New York Jets decision to part ways with head coach Robert Saleh after last Sunday's loss in London. Despite a 2-3 record, the firing seemed abrupt, especially with the Jets on the verge of potentially challenging for first place in their division ahead of Monday Night Football against the Buffalo Bills. However, Schecter believes that Saleh was not the core issue.
Rodgers Influence and Strain on Coaching Dynamics
Bringing in a four time MVP like Aaron Rodgers means more than just adding a star quarterback; it also introduces a complex dynamic between player and coach. Rodgers often operates as his own offensive coordinator, which can complicate the head coach quarterback relationship. Signs of tension between Saleh and Rodgers emerged in recent weeks, notably during a public interaction after the Patriots game where Rodgers seemed to push Saleh away. Following their loss to Denver, both spoke about accountability and cadence issues, further hinting at underlying tensions.
Schecter noted that Saleh's authority on offensive matters had diminished, particularly with the influence of Rodgers and the offensive scheme designed around him. Rodgers presence, along with his personal connections, such as offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett and wide receiver Allen Lazard, created a challenging environment for Saleh to navigate.
Interim Head Coach and Offensive Shakeup
With Saleh gone, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has been appointed interim head coach. His first move was to demote Hackett, a decision Schecter believes Saleh had wanted to make before his dismissal. Ulbrich, having been present in team meetings, likely had insights into the team’s struggles and saw Hackett's removal as necessary. The Jets offensive struggles have persisted under Rodgers, who, at 40 years old, has shown signs of decline, highlighted by his three interceptions in last Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings.
Despite the changes, Schecter remains skeptical that the offensive scheme is the best fit for the team, noting that Hackett's previous role with Rodgers at the Packers was overseen by head coach Matt LaFleur, who was instrumental in Rodgers success. Now, as Ulbrich takes the reins and a new offensive play caller steps in, the focus will be on whether the Jets fortunes change under new leadership or if deeper issues persist.
The Future of the Jets: Trade and Offensive Prospects
Looking ahead, the Jets could make a move to trade for Raiders wide receiver Davante Adams, given their available salary cap space and Rodgers long standing relationship with Adams from their time in Green Bay. While the Jets have the potential to turn their season around, Schecter warns that any future success should not be attributed to Saleh's firing. Under his leadership, the Jets defense consistently ranked in the league’s top five, keeping them competitive in recent games. Instead, the offense ranked among the league's worst has been the team's major setback.
The Jets now find themselves in a precarious position, and it remains to be seen how they will perform with a new offensive play caller and if the defense will continue to excel under Ulbrich’s leadership. The coming weeks will determine whether these changes can address the team’s struggles or if further adjustments are needed.
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