East Rutherford, NJ -- September 29 -- Jets head coach Robert Saleh as Aaron Rodgers of the Jets walks off the field in the first half as the Denver Broncos edged the New York Jets 10-9 at MetLife Stadium.

nfl

Are the Jaguars flirting with disaster by considering Robert Saleh for head coach role?

Jaguars eye Robert Saleh: risky or reckless choice?

The Jacksonville Jaguars have added Robert Saleh, the former head coach of the New York Jets, to their list of candidates for their head coaching vacancy. Saleh, fired after a 20-36 record over three seasons, remains a polarizing figure due to his lackluster tenure in New York. Despite his poor record, his defensive coaching credentials continue to generate interest.

Robert Saleh’s rocky past with the Jets

Saleh’s tenure in New York was unremarkable, marked by offensive struggles and an overall lack of cohesion. The Jets failed to show significant improvement under his leadership, resulting in his dismissal. Yet, his defensive credentials remain intact, thanks to his stint as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020. Saleh built a reputation for crafting solid defensive schemes during that period, which makes him a desirable candidate for defensive coordinator roles.

The #Jaguars have requested an interview for former #Jets HC Robert Saleh for their head coaching position. pic.twitter.com/DUiV4YYqL4
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) January 7, 2025

Jaguars’ coaching candidates include top offensive and defensive minds from across the NFL

In addition to Saleh, the Jaguars’ interview list features several high-profile coordinators:

Todd Monken (Ravens offensive coordinator)
Joe Brady (Bills offensive coordinator)
Kellen Moore (Eagles offensive coordinator)
Ben Johnson (Lions offensive coordinator)
Aaron Glenn (Lions defensive coordinator)
Patrick Graham (Raiders defensive coordinator)

These names represent some of the most respected offensive and defensive minds in the league, leaving many to question whether Saleh’s inclusion dilutes the pool of elite talent.

Why Robert Saleh might not be the Jaguars’ best option for head coach in 2024

The Jaguars need a coach who can help quarterback Trevor Lawrence thrive, and Saleh’s track record with offensive strategy raises concerns. During his Jets tenure, the team consistently struggled to develop a functional offense. Jacksonville, looking to rebuild after firing Doug Pederson, may need someone with a more balanced skill set to lead the franchise.

Could Robert Saleh find success in a defensive coordinator role instead?

If the Jaguars pass on Saleh, he could still thrive as a defensive coordinator. Teams like the Giants and Bengals are rumored to be exploring defensive leadership changes, making Saleh a strong contender for such roles. His ability to design effective defensive schemes and lead units under pressure remains a key selling point for teams in need of defensive expertise.

Kellen Moore: LMFAO
Todd Monken: eh
Joe Brady: Yes
Liam Coen: yes
Ben Johnson: Yes
Aaron Glenn: yes
Patrick Graham: wouldn’t watch a game
Robert Saleh: LMFAOO https://t.co/fRKAeUkFKS
— 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐧 (@CookedByDevyV2) January 7, 2025

Jaguars’ decision to keep Trent Baalke complicates coaching hire process

While the Jaguars search for a new head coach, they’ve decided to retain general manager Trent Baalke—a controversial move that has frustrated fans. Baalke’s continued presence might influence the type of candidates willing to accept the job, potentially narrowing the pool of options and complicating the team’s path forward.

Saleh’s inclusion on the interview list reflects the Jaguars’ openness to unconventional candidates, but whether they’ll take the risk remains uncertain. The decision to hire a head coach with a history of struggles will likely draw scrutiny from both fans and analysts.

Image: Imagn

Jaguars

Robert Saleh

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
Got into sports media the same way most people do: by (fortunate) accident. Started with SEO writing, took on a few sports gigs, and now here we are! I cover games, trades, player drama—whatever needs words.
Favorite part? The chaos. One day it’s a blockbuster trade, the next it’s a goat running onto the field. Never boring.
Message to readers: If you want deep analysis, there are people for that. If you want sharp, no-BS writing that actually makes sense, stick around.