Aaron Rodgers vehemently denied any involvement in the dismissal of Robert Saleh as the New York Jets coach, labeling such claims as 'patently false.' The quarterback appeared on The Pat McAfee Show on Wednesday, a day after Jets owner Woody Johnson terminated Saleh's tenure following a 2-3 start in the coach's fourth season.
Earlier in the season, Rodgers had to refute rumors of tension between himself and Saleh. There were also speculations that he might have influenced Johnson's decision, despite the owner's assertion that the choice was 'my decision and my decision alone.'
'As far as any of the ridiculous allegations out there, I’m not going to spend more than one sentence in response to it,' Rodgers said. 'And that is I resent any of those accusations because they’re patently false. And it’s interesting the amount of power that people think that I have, which I don’t.'
Rodgers confirmed that he had a conversation with Johnson on Monday night, during which the owner inquired about his well-being after sustaining an ankle injury in the Jets' loss to Minnesota in London. There was no discussion about Saleh's future during the call.
'Woody has no obligation to let me know what his plans are,' Rodgers said. 'I just appreciated the call that he was checking on me.'
Rodgers acknowledged the harsh realities of the football business and the human element involved in such decisions. He expressed his affection for Saleh and their solid relationship, which was a significant factor in his decision to join the Jets.
The four-time NFL MVP was acquired by New York in April 2023 from Green Bay. Despite high expectations with his arrival, Rodgers suffered an Achilles tendon injury early in his debut season, leading the Jets to a 7-10 finish without him. This season, the team had similar aspirations, but a two-game losing streak and inconsistent play by Rodgers and the offense prompted Johnson's decision.
Rodgers emphasized the need for players, including himself, to take accountability. 'I’ve got to play better – I will,' Rodgers insisted. 'We’ve got a lot to play for.'
The Jets are set to face the Buffalo Bills on Monday night at home, with a victory potentially placing them in a tie for first place in the AFC East. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will serve as the Jets’ interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Rodgers expressed support for Ulbrich and the changes he plans to implement.
The status of offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett as the primary play caller remains uncertain. Hackett and Rodgers share a strong bond from their time together in Green Bay, but Rodgers stated he is 'on board' with whatever adjustments Ulbrich decides to make.
