The New York Jets fired head coach Robert Saleh on Tuesday morning, according to multiple reports. It's a bombshell decision ahead of Monday's AFC East showdown with the Buffalo Bills. The Jets could technically overtake first place in the division with a win.
Saleh's final game in charge was a 23-17 defeat to the Minnesota Vikings in London, England. Saleh and starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers appeared to clash several times throughout the early portion of the new campaign. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has been named interim head coach in the meantime.
Ulbrich will receive an extended look, but the chances of him earning the long-term gig are slim, based on the Jets' current form and dysfunction. Ulbrich is part of a staff that was built by Saleh, one that will probably see mass dismissal after the season.
We've identified three potential candidates who could be the Jets' head coach in 2025.
Ben Johnson, Detroit Lions OC
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has been among the hottest names of the last two coaching cycles. Somehow, Johnson remained in Detroit both times. Conflicting reports over his asking price and demands rose to the surface following his decision to remain alongside Lions head coach Dan Campbell.
Johnson will eventually take a lead gig and it almost certainly has to happen during the next cycle before his suitors grow tired of his indecisiveness. Whether Rodgers is the Jets' quarterback or not, the franchise will almost certainly target an offensive-minded leader after striking out with Saleh. Johnson should sit atop owner Woody Johnson's wishlist.
Kliff Kingsbury, Washington Commanders OC
Kliff Kingsbury's reputation was in shambles following his dismissal from the Arizona Cardinals, but he's currently reintroducing himself to NFL owners as a viable option. Kingsbury is working wonders as the offensive coordinator of the Washington Commanders this season. The 4-1 Commanders are fielding the league's fifth-ranked offense, producing 392.6 yards per game.
Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels is thriving under Kingsbury's tutelage. Daniels is performing like a surefire Offensive Rookie of the Year while mastering a QB-friendly offense that is taking advantage of his dual-threat abilities. Kingsbury could especially appeal to the Jets if they plan on selecting a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Zac Robinson, Atlanta Falcons OC
Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson broke away from Sean McVay at the opportune moment. Robinson still possesses the intriguing history of being a McVay assistant, a resume-builder that's helped coaches earn promotions around the league in recent years, but he also left Los Angeles before injuries ruined their 2024 season and potentially his reputation.
Robinson joined Raheem Morris as the OC in Atlanta and he's overseeing the sixth-best passing attack in the NFL. Starting quarterback Kirk Cousins threw for 509 yards and four touchdowns in a Week 5 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Players like Drake London and Darnell Mooney look reinvigorated. Robinson has received some nibbles in the past, but you should expect him to be a leading candidate for many teams next cycle.
