The New York Jets had a terrible end to their 2022-23 season, ultimately losing the last six games of the season to miss out on the postseason for the 11th consecutive year. This skid was in large part due to the struggles of second-year quarterback Zach Wilson and the offense as a whole, and a decision has been made to help turn things around offensively next season.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Jets and offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur have decided to mutually part ways after two years in that role in the organization.
Sources: The #Jet and OC Mike LaFleur are mutually parting ways. pic.twitter.com/yszByaBUB4
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 11, 2023
While this is obviously not great news for LaFleur, it seems like he’s still garnering interest around the NFL.
Rapoport added that several teams have inquired about LaFleur, and head coach Robert Saleh decided to allow LaFleur to seek other opportunities.
Several teams have inquired about Mike LaFleur and #Jets coach Robert Saleh has allowed him to seek other opportunities. NYJ needs a new OC. https://t.co/oG88S4lGYP
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 11, 2023
This decision can largely be a positive one for both sides to get a fresh start. The Jets ranked in the bottom five among the NFL in points per game with LaFleur calling plays this season.
Plenty of other factors went into the Jets’ offensive struggles this year, including a devastating injury to rookie running back Breece Hall, along with the shaky at-best play from Wilson.
Wilson’s struggles and LaFleur’s firing seem to be very obviously tied together.
According to Pro Football Network, members of the front office believe it’s a failure of LaFleur to develop him, while members of the coaching staff believe it’s because Wilson isn’t an adequate quarterback.
It was clear that a decision needed to be made on either LaFleur or Wilson, and it appears that we now have our answer.
