Jets part ways with Robert Saleh, name Jeff Ulbrich as interim head coach

The New York Jets parted ways with HC Robert Saleh on Tuesday and announced that defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will serve as the team's interim head coach for the remainder of the season.

After starting the season 2-1, the Jets lost a 10-9 home game to the Denver Broncos in Week 4 before losing 20-17 to the Minnesota Vikings last Sunday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.

“This was not an easy decision, but we are not where our expectations should be and I believe now is the best time for us to move in a different direction,” Chief Executive Woody Johnson said in a statement.

Through five games, Ulbrich has led a defensive unit that ranks No. 1 in yards per play (4.26) and No. 2 in yards per play allowed (255.8). Despite losing leadoff forward Jermaine Johnson to an Achilles tendon injury in Week 2, the Jets racked up 18 sacks, their most through five games since 2008.

“He is a tough coach who has the respect of the coaches and players on this team,” said Ambassador Johnson of Ulbrich. “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.”

Ulbrich, in his fourth season as defensive coordinator, led his unit to No. 3 overall in 2023 (292.3) and No. 4 in 2022.