Put yourself in Jeff Ulbrich’s shoes. For 3 seasons, he was helping Robert Saleh train the players as their defensive coordinator. But everything changed in an instant in 2024. After the week 5 loss to the Vikings, the management made a hasty decision to fire Saleh and promoted Ulbrich to the head coach position. Everyone was shocked. But imagine being the man at the moment. He had enormous responsibility and tried to do everything gracefully. He earned the respect of Aaron Rodgers & Co. Ulbrich opened up about it after the week 18 win.

After winning the season finale against the Dolphins by 32-20, he looked at peace with his Jets’ stint, ending with a 2-8 record. When asked about what it meant to him to coach the Jets this season, Ulbrich replied, “It was very challenging. But it was also very rewarding. And I know that sounds crazy. But the fact that our results aren’t what we all wanted. But learned a lot about myself, learned a lot about this team, learned a lot about coaching, teaching, leadership, all things. It’s gonna be a great opportunity for me to reflect and grow, really, when it’s all said and done.” With all the hype and fanfare around the team, it had to be crazy.

 

In the AFC East, he managed to keep the Jets from the bottom position as they have a 5-12 win-loss record while the Patriots have a 4-13 record. However, Ulbrich now has to pack his bags as Woody Johnson is busy interviewing new people for the position. It’s unclear if he would stay there with any job or not.

For Jeff Ulbrich, it was a challenge working with Aaron Rodgers. The veteran quarterback brought in great experience, but he never shies from expressing his feelings. But the HC did a fair job with younger talent. He also helped the players like Garrett Wilson grow and manage the pressure of the highly competitive league environment.

While talking about the young 24-year-old receiver, the HC said, “Just scratching the surface on what he can become. He’s going to be one of the best that’s playing currently and maybe ever.” That’s a great promise for the fans. Wilson finished the season with 97 receptions for 1,053 yards and 7 touchdowns.

In the season finale, the

Jets finished on the winning side. It would give them confidence before going into the offseason. However, one can expect many changes in the Gang Green.

Jeff Ulbrich reflects on locker room vibes after week 18 victory

For the fans, the entire season was disappointing. After winning the week 2 & 3 games, the Jets had a 5 consecutive losing streak. They managed to break it after a win over the Texans in week 9, but again lost the next 4. However, the HC talked about locker room mood after winning the season finale against the Dolphins and claimed the players were “emotional, bittersweet” but it was “amazing” to end the season with a win.

Reflecting on the win, he said, “It was amazing. Just all the work that’s been put in by those men in that locker room, you know, and all the adversity that had to face on and off this field and everything they’ve been through, just it’s really cool for them to have that moment.” It’s understandable why the players experienced such mixed feelings. For Aaron Rodgers, who turned 41 last December, this might be the last NFL game he played in his career. The veteran has already accepted the reality and is ready to move on. The Jets are yet to announce any decision on the quarterback. His 4 touchdowns against the Dolphins showed he still has a competitive spirit.

Jeff Ulbrich might not be with them anymore. The franchise might announce his departure soon. For the Jets, they are ready to go into the offseason. Expect some tremendous changes for the rebuild.