The NY Jets’ defense, once a formidable force, has become one of the most disappointing aspects of an already disastrous season. A unit that was widely regarded as a top-five defense last year has crumbled in 2024, and interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich bears some responsibility for the decline.
Before owner Woody Johnson’s shocking decision to fire Robert Saleh following a 2-3 start, the Jets had a defense ranked in the top-six for overall EPA, top-four in pass defense, and top-15 in run defense. However, under Ulbrich’s leadership, the defense has taken a dramatic turn for the worse.
Since Week 6, the Jets’ defense has plummeted to 30th in the NFL for overall EPA, and they were ranked dead last going into Week 11, with abysmal rankings in both pass and run defense. Ulbrich’s tenure has seen the team field what could be considered the NFL’s worst defense.
In a press conference following another Jets loss, Ulbrich told reporters that the team would use the upcoming bye week to evaluate their approach for the remainder of the season. He stopped short of ruling out major changes to the defense.
When asked about the possibility of giving up his play-calling duties, Ulbrich didn’t commit to a firm answer, stating that the team would “definitely assess everything.” ESPN’s Rich Cimini suggested that Ulbrich is at least contemplating a change, as it’s become clear that Ulbrich has been stretched too thin in recent weeks. Along with his duties as defensive coordinator and play-caller, he has also been forced to handle head coaching responsibilities since Saleh’s departure, with disastrous results.
Jets cornerback D.J. Reed acknowledged the defense’s struggles since Saleh’s firing, hinting at a noticeable shift in dynamics, though he stopped short of suggesting Ulbrich was overwhelmed. Nonetheless, it’s evident that the coaching change has had a profound impact on the team’s performance.
At this point, however, the damage may already be done. With a 3-8 record, the Jets are staring down a likely top-five pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Any potential changes made during the bye week may be too little, too late.
The team plans to reassess their coaching strategy in the coming weeks, but regardless of whether Ulbrich relinquishes play-calling duties, the season is shaping up to mark the 14th consecutive year without a playoff appearance for the struggling franchise.
