Being an NFL head coach is one of the most challenging jobs in professional sports. It’s a role that often comes with immense pressure, especially when you’re leading a team stacked with talent and high expectations. This is the exact situation Robert Saleh finds himself in as head coach of the New York Jets.
Saleh is tasked with guiding a Jets roster filled with star power, most notably quarterback Aaron Rodgers, running back Breece Hall, wide receiver Garrett Wilson, and standout cornerback Sauce Gardner. The Jets have assembled a squad designed to compete for a Super Bowl, especially with Rodgers at the helm, bringing his vast experience and leadership to an offense that has been craving consistency.
However, success in the NFL is never guaranteed. Despite the star-studded roster, Saleh faces intense scrutiny. The Jets’ Super Bowl hopes took a hit last season when Rodgers tore his Achilles in the season opener, sidelining him for the year. Rodgers made his highly anticipated return this past Monday against the San Francisco 49ers, but the rust was apparent.
The Jets fell 32-19 to the defending NFC champions, and although Rodgers showed flashes of brilliance, it was clear the team is still finding its footing.
While it’s unfair to place all the blame on Saleh, he is undeniably under the microscope. Since taking the helm in 2021, Saleh has posted an 18-34 record, with back-to-back 7-10 seasons. Though this is an improvement from his 4-13 record in his first year, it’s still not where the Jets need to be if they are serious about competing for a championship.
With a roster full of talent and high aspirations, these kinds of performances are simply not good enough.
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The Jets’ inconsistencies have led to growing concerns about Saleh’s job security, a conversation that ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky brought into the spotlight. During a segment on ESPN’s Get Up show, the panel discussed their expectations heading into Week 2 of the NFL season. Orlovsky, in particular, zeroed in on Saleh, expressing doubts about his ability to handle the pressure.
“There is no coach in the NFL with more pressure on them this weekend than Robert Saleh,” Orlovsky stated, highlighting the critical nature of the upcoming games for the Jets.
With Aaron Rodgers expected to be close to full strength and the team boasting an impressive roster, Saleh must now figure out how to maximize their potential. The expectations are sky-high, and another underwhelming performance could put him firmly on the hot seat.
The next test for Saleh and the Jets comes on Sept. 16, when they face the Minnesota Vikings at 1 p.m. ET. This game could prove pivotal for Saleh’s future, as the pressure continues to mount. If the Jets falter again, the calls for a coaching change could grow even louder.
For now, Saleh’s focus remains on turning things around, but time may be running out if the results don’t follow soon.
