Five Potential Replacements for Robert Saleh as New York Jets Head Coach

New York, NY — With growing uncertainty surrounding Robert Saleh’s future as the head coach of the New York Jets, speculation is mounting about who could potentially take over the reins if the team decides to make a change. Saleh, who is in his third season with the Jets, has faced criticism as the team continues to struggle with inconsistency and underperformance. While Saleh brought high hopes with his defensive background and leadership style, the pressure to win in the New York market is relentless.

If the Jets decide to move on from Saleh, here are five potential candidates who could step in and turn the team around:

1. Eric Bieniemy – Offensive Coordinator, Washington Commanders
Eric Bieniemy has long been considered one of the top head coaching candidates in the NFL. After years of success as the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, where he helped develop Patrick Mahomes into one of the league’s premier quarterbacks, Bieniemy moved to Washington in 2023 to establish his own identity as a play-caller. His offensive mind, experience with winning franchises, and ability to develop talent make him a prime candidate to lead a young Jets team in need of offensive firepower.

2. Brian Flores – Linebackers Coach, Pittsburgh Steelers
Brian Flores, the former head coach of the Miami Dolphins, has earned a reputation as a tough, no-nonsense leader who can build a winning culture. Despite his controversial departure from the Dolphins, Flores is highly respected for turning around a struggling franchise during his time in Miami. His defensive expertise and ability to motivate players could be a strong fit for a Jets team that already has a solid defensive foundation but needs a more disciplined approach to succeed.

3. Jim Harbaugh – Head Coach, University of Michigan
Jim Harbaugh’s name always seems to surface when NFL head coaching vacancies arise. The former San Francisco 49ers head coach has rebuilt his reputation in college football, leading the Michigan Wolverines to national prominence. Harbaugh’s NFL experience, including a Super Bowl appearance, and his ability to develop quarterbacks could be enticing for the Jets, who have struggled to find consistency at the position.

4. Kellen Moore – Offensive Coordinator, Los Angeles Chargers
Kellen Moore, one of the brightest young offensive minds in the NFL, is a rising star in the coaching ranks. After several successful years as the Dallas Cowboys’ offensive coordinator, Moore moved to the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023. His innovative play-calling and quarterback-friendly system could be exactly what the Jets need, especially if they are focused on developing a young signal-caller in the near future.

5. Nathaniel Hackett – Offensive Coordinator, New York Jets
Although his stint as the head coach of the Denver Broncos was short-lived, Nathaniel Hackett remains a respected offensive mind. His familiarity with the Jets’ personnel and his relationship with key players, including Aaron Rodgers, could make him a logical choice for a promotion from within if the team wants continuity and believes Hackett can thrive with a second chance as a head coach.

While Robert Saleh’s future remains uncertain, the Jets have several high-caliber candidates to consider should they decide to make a coaching change. Each brings a unique skill set that could help turn the franchise’s fortunes around.