Robert Saleh’s next steps after Jets’ firing revealed

Robert Saleh is in no hurry to go back to the sidelines.

The former Jets coach will not join another team’s staff midseason and will instead focus on the upcoming offseason hiring cycle following his surprise firing from the Jets, The Post’s Brian Costello confirmed.

The San Francisco Chronicle first reported Saleh’s plans, which include an upcoming family vacation.

Saleh appears to be a top option for teams opening defensive coordinator vacancies this offseason after bringing his previous skills as a coordinator with the 49ers to the Jets’ head coaching position.

The Jets are still waiting on Saleh’s contract for the remainder of the 2024 season and then next year after he signed a five-year deal before the 2021 season.

This financial security allows Saleh to be selective in his next moves, and there appears to be little incentive to join a team as an advisor or consultant rather than waiting for a coordinator position.

Such a move would also not mean any financial support, as contracts are usually worded so that any new income reduces the former team’s debts.

There are currently no defensive coordinator positions open, and even if one were to become available, it probably wouldn’t be a desirable job. If Saleh waits, he can choose the vacancies.

Follow the latest on the New York Jets’ firing of head coach Robert Saleh:

There was some speculation online that Saleh might return to the 49ers, whose defense has struggled by their standards this season, but the Chronicle dismissed that premise.

Saleh served as the team’s defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020 and helped the team reach the Super Bowl during the 2020 season.

“The 49ers’ bottom line is: Unless something really weird happens, Robert Saleh isn’t going to walk through that door,” Mike Silver reported.

Saleh also has a close relationship with Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, but the Packers just hired a new defensive coordinator in Jeff Hafley.

Teams would still be interested in Saleh despite his disappointing tenure with the Jets, as the team has had a top defense over the last three years.

The Jets have ranked fourth, third and second in yards allowed per game over the past three seasons. They are only averaging 255.8 yards per game this season.

While Jeff Ulrbrich was the Jets’ defensive coordinator under Saleh and is now the new interim coach, Saleh’s fingerprints were clearly visible on the defense.

Saleh simply couldn’t overcome the offensive difficulties associated with problems at the quarterback position, as Zach Wilson failed to develop and Aaron Rodgers played just six games under his tutelage.

The Jets’ decision left the 45-year-old “blindsided,” according to Fox Sports.

He thanked the franchise and its fans in a statement to The Post on Wednesday.

“To all the players, I truly love and appreciate each and every one of you. The character of the men in the locker room made coaching you the ultimate privilege,” Saleh said in a statement released Tuesday morning. “Through all the ups and downs, every single one of you showed up every day and attacked every moment.

“It was an honor for my coaching colleagues and staff to work with all of you. Each of you was “all in” and made sacrifices for each other that will never be forgotten. I wish you the best of luck for the rest of the season.

“To the NFL’s most passionate fan base: Thank you for embracing my family. It has been a pleasure to call New York home and we will forever cherish all the memories made here.”