Credits: CNN
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The New York Jets have fired head coach Robert Saleh after a disappointing start to the 2024 season. Saleh’s tenure, marked by a 20-36 record over three-plus years, culminated in a 2-3 start this season. The Jets’ recent loss to the Minnesota Vikings, featuring former No. 3 overall pick Sam Darnold, only intensified the scrutiny on the team’s direction. With Super Bowl aspirations, the Jets’ offense has struggled, ranking sixth-worst in total yards, last in rushing yards, and eighth-worst in scoring through five weeks.
As the Jets turn their attention to the future, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will take over as the interim head coach. However, the organization is already eyeing potential candidates for the 2025 season. Here are five names to watch:
5. Jeff Ulbrich, Jets Defensive Coordinator
Before dismissing Ulbrich, it’s essential to recognize his potential. Similar to Antonio Pierce’s success with the Las Vegas Raiders last season, Ulbrich could ignite a turnaround for the Jets. Having served as the Jets’ defensive coordinator since 2021, Ulbrich previously coached linebackers for the Atlanta Falcons and had a stint as their interim defensive coordinator. He recently demonstrated his leadership skills as the National team head coach at the Senior Bowl. NC State linebacker Payton Wilson praised Ulbrich, noting, “You can just tell that the Jets play hard because of him. The passion and energy he brings are contagious. You’d go out there and fight for that guy.”
4. Bobby Slowik, Texans Offensive Coordinator
At just 37 years old, Bobby Slowik has rapidly made a name for himself in the NFL. After helping rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud deliver one of the best first-year performances ever, Slowik has guided the Texans’ offense to new heights, currently ranking sixth in the league. Having worked under coaching legends Mike Shanahan and Kyle Shanahan, he possesses a wealth of offensive knowledge that could revitalize the Jets’ struggling attack.
3. Ben Johnson, Lions Offensive Coordinator
Often regarded as one of the top offensive minds available, Ben Johnson returned to the Detroit Lions this past offseason after being a strong candidate for head coaching positions. Under his leadership, the Lions have consistently ranked among the top five offenses in points and yards over the last two seasons. Johnson, now 38, has been with the Lions since 2019 and is sure to attract interest from teams seeking fresh leadership.
2. Mike Vrabel, Browns Assistant
The former NFL Coach of the Year, Mike Vrabel, found himself unexpectedly unemployed after being released by the Tennessee Titans following back-to-back losing seasons. Despite a commendable 54-45 record during his six years in Tennessee, Vrabel’s success has not gone unnoticed. Currently serving as a coaching and personnel consultant for the Browns, he remains a frontrunner for a head coaching role next offseason.
1. Bill Belichick
Could the legendary Bill Belichick make history by coaching the Jets for a third time? While speculation surrounds his future, it’s clear that the 72-year-old coach is not ready to hang up his whistle just yet. With six Super Bowl titles to his name, Belichick is just 14 wins shy of tying Don Shula for the most overall wins in NFL history. The possibility of a pairing with Aaron Rodgers is tantalizing, though questions remain about their compatibility.