NEW YORK JETS interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich has announced that Todd Downing will take over as the team’s new play caller from next week.
Ulbrich took over from Robert Saleh at the Metlife Stadium just a few days ago, but the ex-linebacker has already made a significant change.
Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich has announced a huge change to the Jets’ offense[/caption]
He has appointed Todd Downing as the team’s new play caller[/caption]
Nathaniel Hackett will remain offensive coordinator[/caption]
He believes a “fresh approach” is needed to boost the Jets following two successive losses.
The 47-year-old has therefore called on Downing to replace play caller Nathaniel Hackett ahead of Monday night’s meeting with the Buffalo Bills.
Despite his demotion, Hackett will remain on board as offensive coordinator.
Ulbrich announced his decision during a press conference on Thursday.
He said: “After a lot of time to think about it — and did not make this decision easily by any means — I’m going to make Todd Downing the play-caller for the New York Jets going forward.
“And this is more a byproduct of a different take on things. I’m not saying it’s a better or worse take on things by any means.
“But just a different take on things, a fresh approach.
“So, ultimately, Todd will have the full say on the game plan and, ultimately, the plays that are called within the game.
“Staying that as well, just another testament to the human being that Nathaniel Hackett is — the fact that he’s going to give this everything in his body, and heart, and soul, and he’s going to be a big part of the success we’re going to have going forward from an offensive perspective.
“And just, I feel so fortunate that he’s staying with us. I mean, here’s a guy who’s been a head coach in this league and willing to draw cards, willing to do whatever it takes — and the true heart of a servant.
“Just, I feel so fortunate that he’s on our staff that he’s in our lies and I can’t speak enough good things about him.”
Ulbrich was appointed interim coach this week after Saleh’s departure.
Saleh was fired by the Jets following Sunday’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings – which left the team with a 2-3 record after five games.
He was removed from the Jets training facility by security without being able to say goodbye to his team.
The locker room was allegedly “shocked” by the decision.
The Jets had been urged to hire six-time Super Bowl champion Bill Belichick to replace Saleh.
However, he has no plans to return to the NFL.
Robert Saleh was fired this week[/caption]
