Just weeks after his firing from the New York Jets, Robert Saleh has already found his way back to football. Spotted at the Green Bay Packers’ practice field, Saleh, the former Jets head coach, was seen participating on the sidelines despite being recently let go by Jets owner Woody Johnson. Saleh’s quick return to the NFL, though, wasn’t about making headlines or discussing his departure from New York, especially not about his former quarterback, Aaron Rodgers.
Saleh Refuses Packers’ Advice on Taking a Break
Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur revealed that Saleh’s presence wasn’t initially part of the plan. After Saleh’s abrupt exit from the Jets, LaFleur humorously advised him to take some time off from the sport. However, Saleh’s passion for football made it difficult for him to stay away for long.
“I told him to do that, but he didn’t listen,” LaFleur joked. “It just shows how much he loves the game. I don’t think it was the right decision [to fire him], but that’s not for me to say.”
Saleh’s passion for the game and defensive expertise has made him a valuable presence for the Packers. His role within the team, though still unclear, offers Green Bay an additional defensive mind to assist with their offensive strategies.
Saleh’s Role with the Packers: Helping the Offense
Saleh’s role with the Packers remains “fluid,” as described by LaFleur, but his defensive insights are already proving helpful. With the Packers’ defense performing well, allowing just 20.4 points per game this season, LaFleur is eager to have Saleh contribute his expertise in analyzing opposing defenses.
“Having a defensive mind talk offense helps,” LaFleur said. “He’s got an elite defensive mind, which is why I want him on the offensive side. He can help us attack defenses in ways we might not have seen.”
Saleh Dodges Aaron Rodgers Questions, Avoiding Controversy
Although Robert Saleh didn’t speak to the media during his time in Green Bay, it seems he managed to avoid addressing a topic that has surrounded his departure—the perceived rift between him and former quarterback Aaron Rodgers. While rumors circulated that friction with Rodgers might have influenced his firing, both Saleh and Rodgers have consistently denied any bad blood.
Rodgers, in a candid appearance on ‘The Pat McAfee Show,’ firmly denied having any influence over Saleh’s dismissal. “I resent any of those accusations because they are patently false,” Rodgers said, emphasizing that he has always respected Saleh.
Despite this, Saleh’s temporary media silence likely allowed him to sidestep a series of uncomfortable questions, making his time with the Packers a refreshing change from the media storm surrounding his exit from New York.
Looking Ahead: Saleh’s Future in Green Bay
With Saleh’s position in Green Bay still in development, it remains to be seen if this new opportunity will lead to a more permanent role with the Packers or elsewhere. As a well-respected defensive mind, Saleh’s next chapter in the NFL is only just beginning. Whether he remains in Green Bay or moves on to a different challenge, his quick return to the field shows that football is never far from his heart.
