New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers strongly shut down the idea that he was responsible for head coach Robert Saleh's stunning firing Wednesday.
"I love coach Saleh, we have a very solid relationship. ... He was a big reason why I came to the Jets," the four-time NFL MVP told the "Pat McAfee Show."
He continued: "As far as any of the ridiculous allegations that are out there, I'm not going to spend more than one sentence in response to it, and that is: I resent any of those accusations because they are patently false. It's interesting the amount of power that people think that I have, which I don't."
Rodgers added that football is a "really tough business."
The Jets moved on from Saleh on Tuesday after starting the 2024 season 2-3. Although their defense ranks in the top 10 for most major categories, their offense ranks only 25th in points.
Saleh posted a 20-36 record after joining N.Y. in 2021. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will serve as the club's interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
Rumors linking Rodgers to Saleh's exit started on social media because Jets owner Woody Johnson said he spoke to Rodgers on Monday night. New York also apparently has no plans of dismissing Nathaniel Hackett, the oft-criticized offensive coordinator who has Rodgers' full support after previously working with him on the Green Bay Packers.
However, Johnson took full responsibility for Tuesday's move. He said he didn't talk about Saleh with Rodgers on Monday.
"We had a short conversation," Rodgers explained Wednesday about Johnson's call. "I appreciate the call, it was a genuine call, and he just asked me how I was doing."
The signal-caller added: "We talked about the (Week 5) game and how disappointed I was in my performance and that I'm going to play better. ... To that point, Woody has no obligation to let me know what his plans are."
Rodgers has been battling an ankle sprain. The Jets started the season 2-1 but lost two straight, having scored only 26 points during their skid.
New York fell to the Minnesota Vikings in London with Rodgers completing under 55% of his passes and throwing three interceptions, including a game-sealing pick in the final minute.
"There has to be some change," Rodgers said. "We need, as players, to take accountability for what has happened. If I'd played better on Sunday, this doesn't happen. As somebody who takes a lot of pride in their performance, that was the main sentiment for me yesterday. Obviously, heart going out to Robert."
Johnson said Tuesday that he expected the 2024 Jets to win more games under Saleh because "this is the best team I've had in 25 years."
New York plays the Buffalo Bills on Monday Night Football in Week 6.
