Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur said former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh will consult for the Packers in a “fluid” role that involves providing the defensive perspective for LaFleur’s offense.
Saleh was at Packers practice on Wednesday as LaFleur’s team began on-field preparations for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
“Thought it was a good idea to bring him here. He’s helping us on the offensive side of the ball,” LaFleur said Wednesday. “I think that’s always a good deal to have that defensive perspective on that side of the ball. Just taking a look at some of the things we’re doing.
LaFleur said Saleh, who was fired by the Jets two weeks ago, will be in Green Bay through Thursday before returning home Friday.
The Packers used former NFL defensive back Aubrey Pleasant in a similar style of consulting role for the offense during the 2022 season.
LaFleur called Saleh an “elite defensive mind” who can help the Packers “attack defenses.”
“It’s a good opportunity for him to learn and also for him to help us and give us perspective on how teams might see us, might defend us,” LaFleur said. “Certainly, can find holes or vulnerabilities in the defense that we’re playing. That’s how we’re going to use him.”
LaFleur made it clear that Saleh would not be helping on the defensive side. He said he has complete “trust” in first-year defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, who previously worked with Saleh in San Francisco.
“Haf and our defensive staff have a great thing going,” LaFleur said.
Saleh spent four seasons as the 49ers defensive coordinator (2017-2020) and the last four seasons with the Jets as head coach. Five times in the last six seasons, Saleh’s defense has ranked in the top 10 for yards allowed.
The relationship between LaFleur and Saleh dates back being on the same coaching staff at Central Michigan in the early 2000s. They were reunited with the Houston Texans at the pro level. Not only coaching colleagues but also close friends, LaFleur was the best man at Saleh’s wedding.
