Aaron Rodgers spoke with New York Jets owner Woody Johnson on Monday night but played no part in the sacking of Robert Saleh, according to ESPN.
Saleh was axed as Jets coach on Tuesday after a below-part start to the NFL season which sees them 2-3 so far.
The 45-year-old was said to be left “shocked” and “blindsided” by Johnson’s decision, with some unfounded rumours suggesting star quarter-back Rodgers played a part in the call.
But senior NFL insider for ESPN Adam Shefter says that while Johnson spoke with Rodgers on Monday following their 23-17 defeat to the Minnesota Vikings, they did not discuss Saleh’s position.
A post on X said: “Jets owner Woody Johnson said he spoke to Aaron Rodgers on Monday night, but it wasn’t about Robert Saleh. Johnson said Rodgers had no input in the decision made this morning.”
Jets owner Woody Johnson said he spoke to Aaron Rodgers on Monday night, but it wasn’t about Robert Saleh. Johnson said Rodgers had no input in the decision made this morning.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 8, 2024
Saleh’s shock Jets firing
Saleh is the first Jets coach to lose his job mid-season since Johnson bought the franchise in 2000.
The Jets owner said the team is “not where we should be, given our expectations”.
Saleh’s side suffered consecutive defeats against the Denver Broncos and Minnesota Vikings, taking their record to 2-3, with Johnson explaining: “I believe now is the best time for us to move in a different direction.”
Defensive co-ordinator Jeff Ulbrich has been named interim manager following Saleh’s departure.
“He is a tough coach who has the respect of the coaches and players on this team,” said Johnson.
“I believe he, along with the coaches on this staff, can get the most out of our talented team and attain the goals we established this off-season.”
