Robert Saleh expressed gratitude and love for his time with the Jets

On Tuesday morning, the Jets abruptly fired head coach Robert Saleh. On Wednesday morning, Saleh issued his first comments about the development.

“To the Jets organization, I am grateful for the opportunity to work with so many incredible people,” Saleh said in a statement issued to PFT. “I will always be grateful for the love and support from everyone at 1 Jets Drive.

“To all the players, I truly love and appreciate each and every one of you. The character of the men in the locker room gives you the ultimate opportunity to coach. Through all the ups and downs, each of you showed up every day and attacked every moment.

“To my fellow coaches and staff, it has been an honor to work with all of you. Each of you were 'all in' and made sacrifices for each other that will never be forgotten. I wish you all the best for the rest of the season.

“To the NFL's most passionate fans, thank you for embracing my family. It is such a joy to call New York our home and we will forever cherish the memories made here.”

Saleh signed off with a message of “love and respect” before adding: “All gas off!!!”

Saleh's contract runs until 2025. He is reportedly not planning to join another team this season. Come next year, however, it will be interesting to see if he ends up as a defensive coordinator with one of the various teams that will inevitably be looking.

It will also be interesting to see if this earns Saleh another shot as head coach. Given former Jets coach Todd Bowles' success in Tampa, maybe another owner will realize it was less about the coach and more about the organization.