The Jets have been eliminated from playoff contention, a disappointing end to what had begun as an encouraging season. Much of the blame for the team’s struggles down the stretch of been placed on their offense, but a shakeup on the sidelines affecting the unit does not appear likely.
When speaking to the media, head coach Robert Saleh expressed his support of offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur. The latter has been at the helm of New York’s offense since 2021, joining the staff at the same time as Saleh. That tenure began with an underwhelming performance across the board on offense, but expectations were raised considerably in light of the organization’s offseason moves.
Those included the additions of wideout Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall in the draft to go along with a second season of quarterback Zach Wilson under center. The latter has struggled immensely this year, though, missing time at the start of the season and being benched in favor of Mike White on multiple occasions. The 2021 second overall pick’s future in the Big Apple has been called into question, though Saleh recently backed the possibility of a continued relationship with him.
In addition to Wilson, LaFleur has reportedly been on thin ice given the Jets’ inability to consistently produce on offense in recent weeks in particular. During the team’s current five-game losing streak, it has averaged only 12 points per game and has not found the end zone since Week 15. Wilson’s marked lack of improvement, along with injuries to Hall and left guard Alijah Vera-Tucker offer at least a partial explanation for the unit’s struggles, but LaFleur has drawn sharp criticism in light of New York’s elite rankings in several defensive categories.
Saleh said, via ESPN’s Rich Cimini, that the Jets are partway through “a commitment to go young everywhere – coaches, players, staff, everybody. It’s so important to take a deep breath… and make sure we’re telling ourselves the truth rather than allowing narrative and panic to set in.”
He cited his own history as the former 49ers DC as a reason for remaining patient with staff members.
Saleh also noted the success that a number of players have had after departing New York as reason to remain patient and not rush any decisions amid the disappointment of recent weeks and months.
Saleh, LaFleur and the Jets will be the subject of plenty of scrutiny this offseason as they look to take another step forward in 2023.
