Jets Officially Announce Robert Saleh As New Head Coach

It's official. 

The Jets announced on Tuesday afternoon that Robert Saleh has signed his contract to become New York's new head coach, the 20th in franchise history.

Saleh agreed to the deal in principle last week after meeting with the Jets' brass in person for a second-round interview. He officially signed on Monday when he returned to the Jets' facility.

"It's an honor to be the head coach of the New York Jets," Saleh said in a statement released by the team. "To Christopher Johnson, thank you for this opportunity, it is one I've worked extremely hard for and will give everything I have to it. 

"Throughout the interview process, it became clear that this is the right place to call home. The passion Christopher, Joe [Douglas] and Hymie [Elhai] have for this team is evident and I look forward to partnering with them to bring us where we want to be."

New York's head coaching search was a meticulous process, one that involved several highly sought-after candidates. In the end, nine individuals were interviewed in the first round. It didn't take long, however, for Saleh to distinguish himself as a top candidate. 

"After a thorough process and meeting with a number of talented coaches, it was clear to us that Robert was the right person to help us move forward," CEO Christopher Johnson said in a statement. "He is a collaborative leader with proven success in the NFL. In addition to his work as a coach on this level, his passion and knowledge of the game along with his vision for establishing an identity for this team sold me."

Jets general manager Joe Douglas, who was in charge of the search for Adam Gase's replacement echoed Johnson's sentiments.

"Coach Saleh is an exceptional teacher, motivator and communicator," Douglas said. "He has earned every opportunity he has gotten and made the most of each of them. We spoke to some tremendous coaches, but Rob is the right partner and leader for us. His vision for this team aligns with what we have been working to establish here the last two years. Coach Saleh's energy, knowledge and focus are contagious and will serve our team well as we continue to develop our culture, our foundation, and move this organization in the right direction. I am excited to work closely with him to build this team into the winner that our fans deserve and will be proud of."

Saleh is coming off a four-year stint as the 49ers defensive coordinator, helping transform San Francisco's defense into one of the best units in the NFL. He's reportedly bringing along a tremendous coaching staff as well, one that includes Mike LaFleur as New York's new offensive coordinator. 

Jets' 'Outstanding' Coaching Staff Under Robert Saleh Is Taking Shape

"There are no shortcuts to success, and I am committed to working with Joe to build this team the right way: with talented players that play fast and smart, and a staff that supports and helps develop them through it all," Saleh explained. "To Jets Fans, your passion and commitment are priceless. I understand your expectations and embrace them. We have a lot of work to do and can't do it without your support. Thank you for your warm welcome and please stay safe and healthy."

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