Jets' Saleh - 0-1 with Aaron Rodgers feels better than 1-0 in '23 - ESPN

A year ago, the New York Jets were 1-0 but reeling in the aftermath of quarterback Aaron Rodgers' season-ending Achilles injury. All things considered, their current 0-1 start actually feels better than last season, according to coach Robert Saleh.

«You know what? Unfortunately, it does,» Saleh said Tuesday, several hours after being dominated by the San Francisco 49ers in a 32-19 loss at Levi's Stadium.

The 40-year-old Rodgers emerged unscathed from his first extensive action in 20 months, perhaps the only silver lining in a loss best described by wide receiver Garrett Wilson: «They whupped our ass, and that's the reality of it.»

After being outclassed by the 49ers, his previous team, Saleh tried to put a positive spin on the Jets' situation. He insisted the offense was better than it looked and vowed to get the defense — the hallmark of the team — turned around.

«It's definitely going to get fixed,» Saleh said. «I'm not discouraged in any way. Obviously, they executed a hell of a lot better than we did, and we'll be better for it.»

The Jets, who next face the Tennessee Titans (0-1) on the road, allowed eight consecutive scoring drives — a stunning meltdown for a prideful defensive unit that finished No. 3 in yards allowed in 2023. It had been at least 45 years since they surrendered that many scoring drives in a row, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.

Kept off-balance by the 49ers' pre-snap motion and misdirection, the Jets were shredded for 147 rushing yards by Christian McCaffrey's understudy, Jordan Mason. Afterward, Saleh and the players were quick to credit the 49ers and their scheme.

«They're a good football team,» said cornerback Sauce Gardner, who missed nine snaps because he got the wind knocked out of him.