In a recent press conference, San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan shared his thoughts on the surprising news of the New York Jets firing Robert Saleh, who was Shanahan’s former defensive coordinator for four seasons before taking on the role of head coach for the Jets. The relationship between Saleh and Shanahan dates back to their time together as assistants on the Houston Texans’ staff from 2006-09, creating a deep history between the two football minds.
Shanahan expressed his shock at the decision made by Jets’ owner Woody Johnson, stating, “I sent him a text, but I haven’t gotten to talk to him. And yeah, I was pretty shocked. That stuff throws you off, especially when they’re competing for first in the division this week and I think they’re up there on defense and have got a pretty good team and a chance to have a hell of a year. So that was pretty surprising.”
Saleh’s tenure with the Jets ended with a 20-36 record over four seasons, highlighting the challenges he faced as the franchise’s head coach. Despite the Jets’ strong defensive performance, the team struggled on the offensive side of the ball, even with star quarterback Aaron Rodgers leading the way and a talented group of weapons at his disposal.
In the wake of Saleh’s departure, the Jets have appointed defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich as the interim coach as they prepare to face the Buffalo Bills on Monday night. The team will need to rally together and overcome this unexpected coaching change as they look to finish the season on a high note.
