The New York Jets fired Robert Saleh after a disappointing 2-3 start, with defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich named as the interim coach.
Jets owner Woody Johnson said in an official team statement that the decision to fire Saleh after three and a half years with the team "was not easy." But it is a decision, he believes, that "can get the most out" of their talented team led by their 40-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
The Athletic named Mike Vrabel, the 2021 NFL Coach of the Year and a three-time Super Bowl champion as a player, as the top candidate to replace Saleh should Ulbrich fail.
"If the Jets continue to stumble, there are some appealing coaching candidates expected to be available this offseason, including former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, who should top the list of candidates if Ulbrich doesn't keep the job," The Athletic report said.
Ulbrich has the remainder of the season to prove he's worthy to get the full-time head coaching job for the Jets.
Ulbrich will start coaching the team on Monday Night against the Buffalo Bills in a titanic matchup that would have an impact on their chances to come out of the AFC East.
The Bills currently lead the AFC East with a 3-2 record, with the Jets and the Miami Dolphins behind them, tied with a 2-3 slate.
