Robert Saleh’s first official words as Jets head coach

The Jets formalized it on Tuesday afternoon, announcing the hiring of Robert Saleh as new head coach.

The team agreed to a tentative deal with Saleh last Thursday, but the move was unofficial until he signed his contract on Tuesday. He is due to meet the media practically at 2 p.m. Thursday for his introductory press conference.

The team released statements on Tuesday from Saleh, CEO and team chairman Christopher Johnson, and chief executive Joe Douglas.

“There is no shortcut to success,” said Saleh, “and I am committed to working with Joe to build this team the right way: with talented players who play fast and smart, and a great staff. that supports them and helps them grow through it all. .

“For Jets fans, your passion and commitment is invaluable. I understand your expectations and I accept them. We have a lot of work to do and cannot do it without your support. “

Saleh replaces Adam Gase, who went 9-23 in two years and was extremely unpopular with the fan base. Saleh’s hiring has been well received by fans, who are excited to see what the former 49ers defensive coordinator can do.

The Jets hired Saleh after interviewing at least nine candidates. They held a second interview with Saleh and former Titans offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who landed the Falcons head coach job. The talks were conducted by Johnson, Douglas and team chairman Hymie Elhai.

“After a thorough process and meeting with a number of talented coaches, it was clear to us that Robert was the right person to help us move forward,” Johnson said. “He is a collaborative leader with proven success in the NFL. In addition to his work as a coach at this level, his passion and knowledge of the game as well as his vision of establishing an identity for this team sold me.

“It was also clear that he will partner with Joe to help foster and develop the winning culture that we strive to establish. For us as a group, we were in awe of how he mastered the space and his ability to communicate his vision throughout the process.

The Jets emphasized finding a leader in this process rather than a strong sense of strictly offensive or defensive training. Saleh, 41, is known for his great energy on the sidelines and for being highly regarded by his players.

“We’ve spoken to some great coaches, but Rob is the right partner and the right leader for us,” said Douglas. “His vision for this team is what we have worked to establish here over the past two years.”

Saleh and Douglas have a difficult task ahead of them. The Jets went 2-14 last year and have had five consecutive losing seasons. The team has one of the worst rosters in the NFL and a huge decision to make at the quarterback. On the positive side, Douglas is armed with assets to improve the team quickly with good decisions. The Jets are expected to have more than $ 70 million in salary cap space and they have nine draft picks in each of the next two draft, including two first-round picks each year.

“Coach Saleh’s energy, knowledge and focus are contagious and will serve our team well as we continue to develop our culture, our foundation and move this organization forward in the right direction,” said Douglas. “I am delighted to be working closely with him to make this team the winner that our fans deserve and of which they will be proud.”

Saleh was one of the hottest coaches of this recruiting cycle. He interviewed six of the seven teams that had openings. Saleh made the 49ers’ defense one of the best in the league.

“Throughout the interview process, it became clear that this was the right place to call home,” Saleh said. “Christopher, Joe and Hymie’s passion for this team is evident and I can’t wait to partner with them to get us to where we want to be.