Jets HC Robert Saleh: Trading for QB Joe Flacco was 'no-risk' move despite COVID-19 designation

The New York Jets surprised many late last month when they traded with the Philadelphia Eagles for veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, who spent the 2020 season with Gang Green. 

Flacco generated headlines last week before his start over the Miami Dolphins, which he lost to drop the Jets to 2-8 on the campaign, by confirming he isn't vaccinated against COVID-19. That situation took a new turn Tuesday when both Flacco and fellow backup signal-caller Mike White landed on the reserve/COVID-19 list. 

A subsequent report said White tested positive for the coronavirus and that Flacco must isolate away from team activities for a minimum of five days as a high-risk close contact, something the Super Bowl XLVII Most Valuable Player could've avoided if he was fully vaccinated. Head coach Robert Saleh spoke with reporters Wednesday and expressed no regret about losing an asset to acquire Flacco this fall. 

"When someone offers a sixth-round pick for a player of Joe’s caliber, there is no risk," Saleh explained, per Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk. 

Saleh's comment and the acquisition of Flacco make little sense to outside observers, as rookie Zach Wilson prepares to return from the PCL sprain that kept him out of action the past four games. The Jets have Josh Johnson available, and one has to assume Saleh knew Flacco is unvaccinated and, thus, could become temporarily ineligible even if he avoided testing positive for the virus. 

With New York going nowhere but near the bottom of the standings by Jan. 9, trading for Flacco remains a head-scratching decision.