In an exclusive interview with The Post, Jets owner Woody Johnson announced that both general manager Joe Douglas and head coach Robert Saleh will be returning for the 2024 season. Johnson expressed his confidence in the duo, highlighting the positive moves made by the team and the improvement in team culture and defense.

The Jets entered the 2023 season with high expectations, following the acquisition of quarterback Aaron Rodgers in April. However, their hopes were quickly dashed when Rodgers suffered a torn left Achilles tendon just four plays into their season opener against the Bills, leaving the team to rely on quarterbacks Zach Wilson, Tim Boyle, and Trevor Siemian throughout the season.

Despite their struggles, Johnson emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity with a talented quarterback like Rodgers. He acknowledged the need for a steady and skilled quarterback since Rodgers' injury, stating that having a good quarterback makes everyone's job easier and positively impacts the team's offensive line and receivers.

With a current record of 5-9, the Jets are set to miss the playoffs for the 13th consecutive season, marking the longest playoff drought in North American sports. Saleh, who has been with the team for three seasons, holds a cumulative record of 16-32. While he has successfully built one of the best defenses in the NFL, offensive production has been a challenge for him.

Joe Douglas assumed the position of GM in June 2019 and has overseen a record of 25-55 during his tenure. While he has added talent to the roster, especially with standout rookies Sauce Gardner and Garrett Wilson from the 2022 draft class, there have been difficulties in building a strong offensive line. Additionally, the decision to draft Zach Wilson as the second overall pick in 2021 has been considered a misstep.

Despite the setbacks, Johnson remains hopeful for the future, fueled by the impressive performance and impact Rodgers has demonstrated even without extensive practice. Rodgers, who was ruled out for the remainder of the 2023 season due to the team's elimination from playoff contention, has been involved in the Jets' practice, leading the scout team in energetic sessions.

The support for Douglas and Saleh extends beyond Johnson, as Rodgers himself expressed confidence in the team's leadership during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show." He emphasized that the team does not require a complete rebuild but rather a reload, acknowledging the tough decisions that lie ahead and expressing his satisfaction with the current pieces in place.

As the Jets look to the 2024 season with high hopes, the retention of Joe Douglas and Robert Saleh signals a commitment to stability and continuity in their pursuit of success. With the return of Aaron Rodgers alongside the continued efforts of the team's leadership, Jets fans can anticipate an exciting and potentially game-changing season ahead.