FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – In a charged response to recent speculation, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers addressed rumors suggesting he played a role in the dismissal of head coach Robert Saleh after just five games. During his appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Rodgers firmly denied the allegations, stating, “I resent any of those accusations because they are patently false. It’s interesting the amount of power that people think I have, which I don’t. I love Robert.”

Rodgers expressed his intention to support interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich and any potential changes to the coaching staff that he may implement. Among those changes could be the fate of Nathaniel Hackett, the offensive coordinator and one of Rodgers’ close friends, who was under scrutiny following reports that Saleh had been contemplating demoting him prior to his firing.

Following Saleh's abrupt dismissal, Jets players were left in shock. The team's leadership convened multiple meetings, including hours of discussions with owner Woody Johnson, emphasizing a call for accountability. According to tight end Tyler Conklin, during a players-only meeting, Rodgers reiterated the message of accountability but was not implicated in the discussions about Saleh’s fate. “I honestly, truly believe that,” Conklin noted, indicating that the notion of Rodgers being involved in Saleh's firing was unfounded.

The day after Saleh’s exit, Rodgers reflected on the situation, showing empathy for Saleh and his family, hinting at the reality that a better performance on the field might have altered the coaching landscape. He also revealed a brief conversation with Johnson the night before, where Saleh’s future wasn’t discussed, but the focus was on Rodgers’ ankle injury from the game.

Johnson later clarified the circumstances around Saleh’s firing, asserting, “That decision was my decision and mine alone,” and rejected suggestions that he sought input from Rodgers before making the move.

The relationship between Rodgers and Saleh has been closely scrutinized, particularly since tensions arose earlier in the season when Saleh fined the veteran quarterback for not attending a mandatory minicamp. However, both men have maintained that their relationship has remained solid.

In a farewell statement, Saleh expressed gratitude towards the organization and the fans but did not mention any individuals. As for Rodgers, he remained composed amidst the surrounding drama, asserting that external narratives regarding his influence were unimportant to him.

Meanwhile, the Jets players continued to come to terms with the changes. Linebacker C.J. Mosley admitted he was “pretty shocked” at the firing, while offensive tackle Morgan Moses noted it “caught a lot of people off guard.” Conklin lamented that despite the talent on the team, the lack of production ultimately led to the coaching change.

As the Jets navigate this tumultuous period, all eyes will be on how Rodgers and the team adjust under the new leadership, and whether they can turn their season around after such a staggering series of events. Will this coaching shakeup be the catalyst for change, or is it merely a band-aid on a deeper issue within the organization? Only time will tell.