Saleh psyched after Jets’ additions

Robert Saleh is fully embracing the do-over that many NFL head coaches never get.

The Jets retained Saleh after a third straight losing season because of the internal feeling that quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ season-ending torn Achilles on the first possession of the 2023 season altered what was possible. A healthy Rodgers essentially puts a playoffsor-bust label on 2024.

“Excited to attack this season,” Saleh told NFL Network in first comments of the offseason Sunday at the annual spring owners meetings, “and try to accomplish the things we were supposed to accomplish a year ago.”

The Jets have had a busy last two weeks, rebuilding their starting offensive line around free-agent additions Tyron Smith and John Simpson while reacquiring Morgan Moses via trade. They also signed arguably the top available receiver, Mike Williams.

Smith, Williams and Moses all come with varying degrees of injury concerns. Jets general manager Joe Douglas inked Smith and Williams to incentive-laden, one-year contracts based on playing time.

“You look at a guy like Morgan Moses who played on a torn pec last year: Just an oldschool soul in the sense that he just shows up to work, works his tail off, and a guy who’s going to pull people with him,” Saleh said.

“Tyron Smith has played at a very high level for a very long time. And John Simpson at guard, I mean, he’s like the definition of strain. The way he works and kind of his story. He’s kept battling to prove he belongs in this league. Excited about the mental makeup of the room.”

Saleh and NFL Network reporter Steve Wyche categorized the offseason as “quiet” for the Jets, relative to one year ago at this time when they were in pursuit of trading for their future Hall of Fame quarterback.

Saleh said he speaks with Rodgers “often” and the quarterback is “getting ready” for the season, with no indication that he might not be ready for training camp as planned.

“He’s on a mission,” Saleh said.