5 candidates Jets could consider to replace Robert Saleh feat. Lions OC Ben Johnson

Earlier today, the New York Jets fired coach Robert Saleh. The Jets are 2-3 heading into Week 6, and owner Woody Johnson, much to the surprise of many, decided to make the change.

Saleh became the Jets coach in 2021 and finished with a record of 20-36 in 56 games. He had one year left on his deal, but the franchise didn't want to waste this season before parting ways with him.

The New York Jets have appointed Jeff Ulbrich, their defensive coordinator, as the interim head coach. He will hold the position until the end of the season. The franchise will thoroughly evaluate all potential candidates during this time and decide after the season.

Here are five candidates who the Jets could target for becoming their new head coach in 2025:

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Robert Saleh replacements

#1 Ben Johnson

Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is one of the most sought-after candidates in the league for a new head coach position. He was close to becoming the Washington Commanders' coach this past offseason but chose to continue with the Lions.

That's now his third season as the Lions' OC, and he's expected to take a head coaching job after the end of the season. Johnson has worked wonders with Jared Goff and the Lions offense and is a big reason for their success.

The Jets desperately need a spark to their offense, and Johnson is the best candidate for the job.

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#2 Mike Vrabel

Tennessee Titans v Houston Texans - Source: Getty

The Tennessee Titans fired Mike Vrabel after the end of the last season. He had a record of 54-45 in six seasons with the franchise and will be among the top candidates in the next coaching cycle.

Vrabel will help establish a culture for the Jets, which they certainly lacked under Robert Saleh. Although the former Titans coach is more known for his prowess on the defensive side of the ball, his tenure with Tenneessee proves that he can have success in the NFL.

The Jets have a great group of players on the defensive side of the ball. Vrabel could instill discipline and toughness in the offensive players, which is a recipe for success.

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#3 Klint Kubiak

New Orleans Saints OTA Offseason Workout - Source: Getty

New Orleans Saints offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak has impressed this year. Although two of the last three games have been tough for the Saints' offense, Kubiak has improved the level of play from Derek Carr and other offensive players.

The Saints are averaging 28.0 points and 328.4 yards of total offense this year. Moreover, he has prioritized running the ball, which could be successful in New York as the Jets have two good young running backs, Breece Hall and Braelon Allen.

While it may be too soon to hire Kubiak as a coach, there will be teams around the NFL who will make a push for him in the next coaching cycle.

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#4 Bill Belichick

NFL: SEP 16 Falcons at Eagles - Source: Getty

Bill Belichick needs no introduction. A six-time Super Bowl-winning coach with the New England Patriots, Belichick is on the market and could return to coach a team next season.

His arrival would instill a winning culture in the team, something they desperately need. However, like Vrabel, the legendary coach is more known for being defensive-minded. If the Jets hire Belichick, they would have to bring in a good offensive coordinator as well.

If Nathaniel Hackett, the team's current offensive coordinator, performs well for the remainder of the season, the decision to hire a new head coach would be easier for the Jets. The Jets offense is averaging just 18.6 points per game, and Aaron Rodgers is coming off a game where he threw three interceptions.

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#5 Jeff Ulbrich

New York Jets Offseason Workout - Source: Getty

Jeff Ulbrich is the Jets' interim head coach for the rest of the season. He has been a candidate for the head coaching job for the last few years and has 12 games to prove his worth to the franchise.

If the Jets go on to make the playoffs and win a game or two while playing an exciting brand of football, the team might stick with Ulbrich. He has been an excellent defensive coordinator for them since 2021 and is well respected by the entire team.

Houston Texans' offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik is another candidate the Jets could pursue for the head coaching role after the season.