Robert Saleh joins Matt LaFleur’s coaching team on a ‘fluid role’ at Packers just 16 days after Jets fired him as head coach

Robert Saleh began the 2024 season hoping to save his job in New York alongside Aaron Rodgers but now he will help Jordan Love at Green Bay.

Robert Saleh joins Matt LaFleur’s coaching team on a ‘fluid role’ at Packers just 16 days after Jets fired him as head coach

Robert Saleh joins Matt LaFleur at Green Bay Packers (Image via ESPN)

It didn’t take long for Robert Saleh to find a new job after the New York Jets fired him in early October. Saleh was spotted standing with a play sheet beside Matt LaFleur at Green Bay Packers training on Wednesday.

This new development came as a surprise because many tipped Saleh to take a break and rejoin the 49ers next year. Hardly anyone saw him show up at Packers camp.

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LaFleur later spoke with the reporters at the presser and revealed the reason behind Saleh’s presence at the Packers training. According to the Packers head coach, he invited Saleh to make use of his offensive mind.

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He’s [Robert Saleh] helping us on the offensive side of the ball. That’s always a good deal to have that perspective, that defensive perspective, on that side of the ball. So, just taking a look at some of the things we’re doing.

Matt LaFleur said.

While LaFleur didn’t mention whether the 45-year-old is a long-term hire, he highlighted that his role in the team is fluid. Saleh wants to spend more time with his family, so he will help out the Packers in a limited capacity through the entire season.

It’s a good opportunity for him to learn and also for him to help us and give us perspective on how teams might see us and how they might defend us.

LaFleur added.

After the Jets fired him following their loss in week four, LaFleur reached out to Saleh. When he asked to come and assist him at Green Bay, Saleh did not waste much time responding.

It speaks to how much he loves the game of football; it’s tough when it’s taken away [Jets firing Saleh] from you. I don’t think it was the right decision, but that’s not for me to say.

LaFleur said.
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Jordan Love shared his first impression of working with Robert Saleh

The Packers have won five games in 2024 but sit third in their division after suffering two losses. After staying dormant for so many years, the NFC North has become a powerhouse once again. The Lions, Vikings, and Bears all boast a positive record before week eight of football, so the Packers need to bring something new to stay ahead of the pack.

Robert Saleh joins Matt LaFleur's coaching team on a 'fluid role' at Packers just 16 days after Jets fired him as head coach
Robert Saleh (Image via ESPN)

Bringing a defensive-minded Robert Saleh in to train the offense on how to deal with the best defenses in the NFL may prove to be a shrewd move from the Packers. Quarterback Jordan Love seems to be on board with the move.

Having a defensive mind talking offense and helping us with things he might be able to see, some of our scheme stuff, things the defense might be looking for, it helps.

Jordan Love told Ryan Wood of USA Today.

Wood also cheekily interjected whether he asked his predecessor and current Jets, QB Aaron Rodgers, for any tips regarding how to deal with Saleh. Love gave a short answer:

No
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The Packers play the Jaguars on Sunday before two back-to-back fixtures featuring rival Lions and the Bears—both away games. It will be interesting to see Saleh’s influence on the Packers’ offense when he doesn’t have to bother about making the team’s defense strong.