Aaron Rodgers breaks silence on accusations he got New York Jets coach fired

Aaron Rodgers has spoken out after Robert Saleh was fired by the New York Jets, denying any involvement in the decision to part ways with the head coach

Aaron Rodgers has come out swinging to clear the air on his alleged involvement in the New York Jets' decision to fire Robert Saleh, urging fans to show "humanity" towards the axed head coach and his family.

The four-time NFL MVP took to "The Pat McAfee Show" a day later than usual after postponing his regular slot on the ESPN programme. During the chat with ex-Indianapolis Colts punter McAfee, Rodgers expressed his frustration over "resented accusations" that he was the puppet master behind Saleh's ousting.

Saleh got the boot from the Jets on Tuesday following a less-than-stellar season start, with the team's record slipping to 2-3 after consecutive defeats at the hands of the Denver Broncos and Minnesota Vikings.

Tension seemed to be brewing between Saleh and Rodgers in recent times, highlighted by Rodgers' unapproved trip to Egypt during mandatory minicamp and an odd incident where he pushed Saleh away as the coach attempted to embrace him post-touchdown in a game against the New England Patriots.

Yet, Rodgers spoke highly of his former head coach, reflecting on the harsh realities of the sport: "Yesterday was a day that reminds you of the simple fact that all of us who have played know all too well, and that's that is a tough business. It is a beautiful profession, it's incredible, it's done so much for our lives, but it's also a really tough business.

"I love Coach Saleh. We have a very solid relationship, we have since I met him in 2021. I had a nice conversation when they visited us for joint practices. He was a big reason why I came to the Jets.

"I felt like the team was a solid team. I had a relationship with Coach [Nathaniel] Hackett, obviously, and I really liked Coach Salah. I just had a lot of respect for him and it was just a reminder yesterday of how tough the business is.

"What people can forget in this is not only is Robert a fantastic human being and a damn good football coach, but he is also a family man and the business of can be hard, not just to those of us who are playing and coaching, it's tough on the families.

"Anybody that is championing this decision, I would appeal to the humanity of the situation and remind you there are other people involved and [Saleh's son] has to go to school this week and hopefully there are no kids with cruel parents who are making snide comments."

Regarding the conspiracy claims, Rodgers said: "As far as any of the ridiculous allegations out there, I'm not going to spend more than one sentence in response to it. I resent those accusations because they are patently false.

"It's interesting the amount of power people think that I have, which I don't. I love Robert and it was one of those days yesterday."

Saleh, who has been temporarily replaced by defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich as head coach, shared heartfelt words following his departure on Wednesday. He expressed: "To the Jets organization, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with so many incredible people. I will always be appreciative of the love and support from everyone at 1 Jets Drive.

"To all of the players, I truly love and appreciate every single one of you. The character of the men in the locker room made coaching you guys the ultimate privilege. Through all the ups and downs, each and every one of you showed up every day and attacked every moment.

"To my fellow coaches and staff, it has been an honor to work with all of you. Every one of you was 'all in' and made sacrifices for one another that will never be forgotten. I wish you all the very best of luck for the remainder of the season. "To the most passionate fanbase in the NFL, thank you for embracing my family.

It has been a pleasure calling New York our home and we will forever appreciate all of the memories that were created here. With love and regard. All gas no brake!!!"

Rodgers and the Jets are gearing up for their next game on Monday Night Football in Week 6, where they'll host division rivals the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium. With the Bills currently holding a 3-2 record, the victor will claim the top spot in the division.