Source Gardner deleted the X app from his phone this week because he was fed up with its negative reviews.
So he didn't know the Jets had waived Robert Saleh until he received a text message from his agent.
So Gardner turned to Google and found an article about Saleh's firing.
“I was shocked,” Gardner said. “The reality is we're 2-3. Everything is still in front of us. It was a real shock. Coach Saleh and I have been very close since the day the Jets first drafted me. To be honest, he changed my life.
“For all the things I went through growing up in my hometown of Detroit and the opportunities he gave me…that's why I emailed him on his birthday and… I say this every year: “Thank you for giving me this opportunity.''
Gardner said the Jets are still playing for Saleh.
“We're still doing it for him. That's what it is,” Gardner said. “We still continue to do that for him because we know that everything he does comes from the kindness in his heart of wanting to make the team better. ”
Gardner said the criticism of Saleh was unfair.
Follow the latest updates on the firing of New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh.
“People may say it's his fault, but realistically, we're adults who are paid millions of dollars,” Gardner said. “We have to take responsibility. We should be able to right ourselves and the mistakes we made. It definitely disappointed me. He's a great guy and a great coach. He always helped me find ways to get better, not just me, but the people around me, the coaches as well. He was a true leader and someone we all followed. I still can't believe it.
Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich said he has been in talks with some of his coaching leaders since assuming the role Tuesday.
He cited Washington's Dan Quinn, Atlanta's Raheem Morris and Green Bay's Matt LaFleur as coaches he spoke to this week for advice.
“We're very fortunate to have a lot of current head coaches who have a deep understanding of what this position is like, what it feels like, and what it takes to be successful there,” Ulbrich said. spoke.
QB Aaron Rodgers (ankle) was limited in Thursday's practice, but Ulbrich said there is no concern he will miss Monday's game.
OT Morgan Moses (knee) had limitations, but Ulbrich said he is ready to play after missing the past two games. LB CJ Mosley (toe) was limited.
Mosley has missed the last three games.
CB Michael Carter (back) did not practice.
Carter injured his hamstring before Sunday's loss to the Vikings and is currently dealing with back issues.
TE Tyler Conklin (hip) was limited and OT Tyron Smith (rest) did not practice.
