Former Jets coach Robert Saleh already working with Packers

Former Jets coach Robert Saleh is back in the NFL, working with the Packers and coach Matt LaFleur.

Saleh was fired by the Jets a little more than two weeks ago after three-plus years as their coach. He and LaFleur are close friends and former roommates at Central Michigan, where they served as graduate assistants.

When Saleh was let go, LaFleur told him he’s welcome to work with the offense and provide some insight on how defenses might play the Packers. LaFleur said Saleh’s role is “pretty fluid.” He will be in Green Bay through Thursday and then fly back to New Jersey.

“We thought it was a good idea just to bring him here,” LaFleur said. “He’s helping us on the offensive side of the ball. I think it’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.

Saleh was a defensive coordinator in San Francisco for four years before becoming the Jets coach. Matt’s brother Mike was Saleh’s offensive coordinator in his first two seasons with the Jets. Saleh is under contract with the Jets through next year.

“He’s one of my closest friends so we immediately talked [after Saleh was fired],” LaFleur said. “I didn’t try to put any pressure on him whatsoever. I just said, ‘Hey if you want to stay involved or whatever the opportunity would be here if you wanted it.

“I think 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, how they might defend us. … He’s got an elite defensive mind, which is why I want him on the offensive side so he can help us attack the defenses.”

By Al Iannazzone

al.iannazzone@newsday.comAl_Iannazzone

Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.