As speculation continues over Jets defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich returning to San Francisco to be the 49ers head coach, Evan wonders how much concern that would bring about for what has been the strength of Gang Green in recent years.
“My issue isn’t with Jeff Ulbrich considering taking the job,” Evan said. “My question…the New York Jets defense has been very good the last couple years. I know some want to say it’s overrated. Botom line is, it’s their strength. I give Jeff Ulbrich credit. He’s the defensive coordinator, but Robert Saleh is the head coach. We also look at him as a defensive-minded head coach.
“If Jeff Ulbrich ultimately gets this job that he’s been linked to…should I be deeply concerned that the Jets lost their defensive coordinator? Because the Eagles lost their coordinators, and it basically ruined their season.”
While it would be a lateral move in a job title sense, Ulbrich would be moving to a familiar area, and joining a team that just played for a Super Bowl this month. However, he could be loyal to Saleh since he brought him over after he got the job as the Jets head coach. While Evan wouldn’t keep Ulbrich from leaving if he were the Jets, he wonders if he should be concerned at the thought of Ulbrich, arguably the coach with the most success on the current Jets staff in recent years, bolting for greener pastures.
Tiki says it’s not a big concern, mainly because of the head coach’s background.
“We still remember him running down the sideline when they made big plays,” Tiki said, pointing to Saleh’s time as the Niners defensive coordinator. “There was this energy he had, and players related to him. You would hate to use Ulbrich because he’s been great the last couple of years…but there’s a safety net. It’s there, because Robert Saleh would have to take a bigger role, but that’s what got him the head coaching job.”
