The 2024 season was a forgettable one for the New York Jets. They fired their HC mid-season and handed over the reins to Jeff Ulbrich. Apart from issues like Aaron Rodgers‘s future with the Jets, the defense, and offseason acquisitions, the big question is, what’s next for Ulbrich? Looking at their 4-12 record, this could be a tricky one. But there is some silver lining for him.
One of the Jets linebackers, Jamien Sherwood, talked about Ulbrich. For the big question, ‘Will Ulbrich get the full-time HC job?‘ Taking a clear shot at the Jets’ ownership, Sherwood said, “Most definitely. I think things would look different if he (Jeff) had it from the start.” His answer was an indirect message to the Jets’ front desk.
“As players, we’ve got to go out there and play better for him. I feel like he did everything he needed to do when he was put in the limelight.”
Jamien Sherwood talks about why he thinks Jeff Ulbrich deserves a shot at the Jets’ head coaching job: pic.twitter.com/dgWsJlEdHp
— Jets Videos (@snyjets) January 3, 2025
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The linebacker further said, “But there are no excuses, obviously. Honestly, as players, we gotta go out there and play better for him. I think he did what he needed to do when he was put in the limelight. I think he deserves a fresh start.” The linebacker looked impressed with Jeff Ulbrich’s work, as he called him, “he’s the great coach.”
Ulbrich joined the Jets as a defensive coordinator and this October he was promoted to take charge as the head coach. Of course, he did great in a limited amount of time to show his worth. The results might paint a different picture, but the Jets definitely showed improvement. Their week 15 game against the Jaguars was a good example where the team landed victory with 32-25. That was their first win after week 3.
Sherwood expressed hope, saying that if Ulbrich gets a fair shot, he would avoid repeating the mistakes made this season. Despite LB’s praises, we all know one thing. Ulbrich’s journey to get a full-time job with the Jets is not gonna be smooth. Many top guns are trying to grab this job, which may surprise you.
The Jets’ last lap to decide on full-time HC
When asked about his future with the Jets, Jeff Ulbrich said, “I think I will have an opportunity next week at some point, and I definitely look forward to that… But at the same time, I’m busy right now, I need to finish this season strong, and these players deserve my full effort.” Well, he needs to really gear up for the interview expected next week. The Gang Green is certainly searching for a new head coach.
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One of the big and celebrated names that has applied for this job is the Tennessee Titans‘ former head coach Mike Vrabel. The Jets confirmed that they were done with the interview with Vrabel on Friday. Now this is gonna be tough news for Jeff. Mike Vrable has a rich head coaching career.
The three-time Super Bowl champion has helped the Titans to finish 1st in the AFC South for two consecutive years, 2020 and 2021. Before that, the Jets reached to clinch the 2nd in AFC spot under Vrabel. Though the decision on the head coach position of the Jets is up in the air, Ulbrich is looking forward to an opportunity.
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People recognize him for his tremendous contribution to the Atlanta Falcons and Seattle Seahawks. Though the Jets fans are waiting to see who’s gonna win in the HC race, one thing is clear: Jeff Ulbrich has the upper hand in the race. He has worked in the franchise for the past 3-4 years and knows the ins and outs of the organization more than anybody in the competition.
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Can Jeff Ulbrich outshine Mike Vrabel and secure the Jets' head coaching job permanently?
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Can Jeff Ulbrich outshine Mike Vrabel and secure the Jets' head coaching job permanently?
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