Bill Belichick angers Jets owner Woody Johnson over Robert Saleh firing: 'Just get set, shoot, aim'

Bill Belichick sparred with New York Jets owner Woody Johnson on Monday night over his decision to fire head coach Robert Saleh last week.

Belichick, who spoke to Peyton and Eli Manning on ESPN's alternative show during the Jets' game against the Buffalo Bills on Monday night, absolutely trashed Johnson.

“It felt pretty early to make a coaching change,” Manning said.

“Yeah, look, that’s how it was with the Jets,” Belichick replied. “They have barely gained over 30% in the last 10 years. The owner is the owner, just ready, shoot, aim.”

The Jets released Saleh on Tuesday, just five games into the season. Saleh was hired prior to the 2021 season, which was his first head coaching job in the league. He finished the season 20-36 and never had a winning season. The Jets promoted defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich as interim coach.

The decision to fire Saleh surprised many people in the NFL world. Johnson said he felt Saleh didn't live up to expectations.

Belichick previously worked for the organization, famously served as its head coach for a day before suddenly resigning, and spent more than two decades competing against Johnson while leading the New England Patriots.

Johnson bought the Jets in 2000, the same year Belichick took over at New England after a stint as the Jets' defensive coordinator. During that time, Belichick – with the help of quarterback Tom Brady – won six Super Bowls and 17 division titles. The Jets have won the AFC East once and made six playoff appearances during the same period. They haven't been to the playoffs since the 2010 season and haven't won in eight seasons.

Belichick and the Patriots parted ways earlier this year and he has now moved into a media role at ESPN. This will of course lead to further sharp reactions from the head coach, who was known for his relatively reserved and brusque demeanor.

However, when it comes to leading the Jets, Belichick thought Saleh did a good job.