NFL

JAGODZINSKI FIRED BY BOSTON COLLEGE

Boston College has fired head coach Jeff Jagodzinski for interviewing with the Jets yesterday.

“I thought that we had a coach who wanted to be here for a long time,” athletic director Gene DeFilippo said at a press conference. “And that wasn’t necessarily the case.”

Jagodzinski reportedly infuriated DeFilippo with the way he handled the Jets’ interest. A source said Jagodzinski was dishonest with DeFilippo, who told his now former coach over the weekend that he would be fired if he interviewed with the Jets.

DeFilippo today said he loved Jagodzinski, and that the men had a difference of opinion on the future of the Eagles program.

“Those of you who know Jags and I, you know we are really good friends,” DeFilippo said. “This is a very, very difficult thing to do.

“He is a wonderful person, and a heck of a football coach.”

Jagodzinski, 45, is not considered a strong candidate for the Jets’ job. It is believed he wants to return to the NFL, where was an assistant coach for nine seasons — including in Green Bay with current Jets QB Brett Favre — before taking over the Eagles in 2007.

Jagodzinski left with three years remaining on a five-year contract, and DeFilippo said he expects his next coach to fulfill whatever contract he signs.

“Two good friends can agree to disagree, and we agreed to disagree,” DeFilippo said.

DeFilippo would not address the possibility of waiting to see if Jagodzinski was hired by the Jets.

“I’m not gonna speculate on speculation,” DeFilippo said.

Jagodzinski prepared a statement that was read by DeFilippo.

“My family and I have enjoyed our experience in this great community,” the statement said in part.

The Jets are continuing their search to replace Eric Mangini, who was fired on Dec. 29 and hired to coach the Browns today.

Jagodzinski could land in Seattle as the offensive coordinator under Jim Mora Jr., whom he worked with in Atlanta.

DeFilippo said he was not concerned this situation would hinder his search for a replacement.

“I don’t believe that will scare off anyone,” DeFilippo said. “There are a lot of positive things here and a lot of coaches who want to come here.

“This was the best thing for us to do at this time.”