New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh has had a change of heart regarding the team’s appearance on the HBO documentary series “Hard Knocks.” After initially expressing reluctance to be featured on the show, Saleh showed up to a news conference at training camp wearing a black long-sleeved T-shirt that read “I (green heart) HK,” indicating the Jets’ acceptance of being on the series.
The Jets were reportedly in discussions with “Hard Knocks” about certain access limitations, such as not showing players being cut, but ultimately decided to embrace the opportunity. The NFL has certain conditions that automatically make teams eligible for selection, including not making the playoffs in the past two seasons, not appearing on the show in the last 10 years, and having a new head coach. The Jets met all these criteria and were chosen, along with New Orleans, Chicago, and Washington, as potential teams for this year’s edition.
Initially, there were concerns from players like Aaron Rodgers, who was recently acquired by the Jets, about the added attention and expectations that come with being on “Hard Knocks.” However, both Saleh and Rodgers now seem at ease with the team’s appearance on the show and are looking forward to showcasing what the Jets are all about.
This will be the Jets’ second appearance on “Hard Knocks,” with their previous one occurring in 2010 under coach Rex Ryan. The series is set to premiere on August 8th, giving viewers an inside look at the team’s training camp and preparations for the upcoming season.