Jets' Aaron Rodgers denies rumors he played a role in Robert Saleh's firing

CNN
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Aaron Rodgers denied rumors that he was involved in the firing of New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh while appearing on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Wednesday.

The Jets released Saleh on Tuesday after a disappointing 2-3 start to the season.

“As far as the ridiculous accusations out there, I'm not going to spend more than one sentence on them, and that means I reject every one of those accusations because they're patently false,” Rodgers told McAfee.

“It's interesting how much power people give me – which I don't have – but I love Robert and it was one of those days yesterday.”

While rumors swirled Tuesday following Saleh's sudden departure, Rodgers said he had a good relationship with the 45-year-old coach.

“I love Coach Saleh. We have a very solid relationship. We met him in 2021 and had a nice conversation when they (the Green Bay Packers) visited for training together. He was one of the main reasons I came to the Jets,” Rodgers said of their partnership. “I just had a lot of respect for him and so yesterday was just a reminder of how tough the business is.”

Although he denied rumors of his involvement, the 40-year-old admitted to speaking to franchise owner Woody Johnson the day before Saleh was fired.

“I spoke to Woody. Woody called me on Monday evening. We had a short conversation. I really appreciated the call. It was a real call and he just asked me how I was doing.”

Rodgers said Johnson called to ask about the quarterback's bruised ankle from Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings. Rodgers told the Jets owner that he was disappointed with his performance against the Vikings and that the two discussed how the team could turn the season around.

Following Saleh's shocking exit, Rodgers addressed how quickly things can change in the industry and how days like Tuesday can be particularly difficult for everyone involved.

“Yesterday was a day that reminds you of the simple fact that all of us who have played know all too well that it is a tough business,” said the 20-year veteran. “It's a wonderful job. It's incredible. It’s done so much for our lives, but it’s also a really tough business.”

The Super Bowl champion also reminded viewers that Saleh isn't the only person affected by the decision.

“I think what people can forget is that Robert is not only a fantastic person and a damn good football coach, but also a family man. He has seven children. He has an incredible wife and the football business can be tough. Of course not only for those of us who play and train and take care of personnel matters and responsibilities, but it is also hard for the families.”

Rodgers said he got to know Saleh's family well during their time together, especially Saleh's son Adam, who he said he would trust in training camp. The Jets star later said he was sending Saleh's son a warm hug.

“Anyone who is in any way in favor of this decision, I just want to appeal to the humanity of the situation and remind them that there are other people involved,” the four-time NFL MVP added.

However, Rodgers admitted changes had to be made after the team's start to the season.

New York struggled to find any consistency in its offense.

This was evident in the Jets' last game against the Vikings in London.

Rodgers threw three interceptions on a difficult afternoon for the four-time NFL MVP, including a pick-six to Andrew Van Ginkel and a game-winning pick to Stephon Gilmore in the final minute.

“There were some things that had to change regardless of what happened to Robert. We just didn’t play consistent football on offense and as we know, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”

Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will replace Saleh on an interim basis, Johnson confirmed Tuesday.

“He is a tough coach who has the respect of the coaches and players on this team,” Johnson said. “I believe that, together with the coaches on this team, he can bring out the best in our talented team and achieve the goals we set for ourselves this offseason.”

Rodgers said he doesn't expect wholesale changes, but rather expects adjustments in the way the team plays.

The Jets next face the Buffalo Bills (3-2) at home on Monday Night Football.