Jets fire head coach Robert Saleh ahead of Thursday Night Football clash with Texans

The Houston Texans will take on the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on the primetime stage of Thursday Night Football.

It won’t be a reunion between former San Francisco 49ers coaches Robert Saleh and DeMeco Ryans.

Following Sunday’s 23-17 loss in London against the Minnesota Vikings, the Jets decided to fire the head coach after three-plus seasons.

The news was first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Hired in 2021 after helping the 49ers reach the Super Bowl in 2019, Saleh posted a 20-36 overall record. After his departure, San Francisco elevated Ryans from linebacker coach to defensive coordinator.

Two years after helping the 49ers remain a postseason contender, Ryans was hired to replace Lovie Smith as the Texans’ head coach. Entering the season, many believed the Thursday Night Showdown could have significant playoff implications headlined by Aaron Rodgers and C.J. Stroud.

Houston enters Week 6 at 4-1 with a chance to secure its best start since 2012. New York sits at 2-3 but remains in the hunt for the AFC East division title behind the 3-2 Buffalo Bills.

Following Saleh’s dismissal, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has been named interim head coach.