On Thursday, the Jets announced that they had hired Nathaniel Hackett to replace Mike Lafleur as offensive coordinator.
Head Coach Robert Saleh met with the media shortly after the hire was announced and called the hire a “Home Run.”
Now the question arises, was the hire made because of his ability to be a brilliant, innovative offensive mind? Or simply an opportunity to lore their #1 QB target Aaron Rodgers, who happens to be close to Hackett?
Hackett has spent time as an offensive coordinator with the Buffalo Bills (2013-14), Jacksonville Jaguars (2016-18), and the Green Bay Packers (2019-21) before his failed stint as a Head Coach with the Denver Broncos just this year.
Recency bias will tell you that Nathaniel was a poor play caller. But not long ago, he led the Jaguars to the AFC Championship game with the No.2 ranked offense in the NFL.
The aspect that should excite Jets fans is Hackett’s connection to Aaron Rodgers. Many league sources believe the quarterback will be traded at some point this offseason. During Hackett’s tenure as the Packers OC, Rodgers won back-to-back NFL MVPs. All though he wasn’t the primary play caller, he had a significant role in the Packer’s red zone offense that had an 80% touchdown rate—equaling the 3rd best rate in the NFL. This past year without Hackett, the Packers dropped to 24th.
Another thing worth noting is that Hackett could have chosen to sit beachside drinking mai tai’s and collected his $8 million from the Broncos in 2023. Sources say that was the plan until Saleh sold Hackett on the idea of taking a pay cut to coach up the Jets offense.
Why Make the Hire?
Now ask yourself, why would Hackett risk further tarnishing his reputation? This job comes with a playoff mandate and no current quarterback on the roster that could take them where they need to be.
The answer is Hackett, and the Jets organization has a good sense of the veteran quarterback they will end up landing this offseason.
According to Saleh, no specific quarterback targets named during the interview process. Yet, he assured Hackett that a veteran quarterback is on its way. But the writing is on the wall for who they want as the QB in 2023.
First, the Jets owner says he is willing to spend big money to acquire a quarterback. Wink Wink, the quarterback is owed close to $100m over the next two years.
Second, reports say that the Packers would only trade Rodgers to an AFC team, eliminating a handful of QB-needy teams.
Third, on the Pat Mcafee show, Rodgers speaks about his willingness to restructure his contract. Thus, making it easier for the team receiving him in a deal.
Forth, shortly after, the Jets hire Hackett, who Rodgers admires.
What’s Next?
According to PointsBet Sportsbook, the Jets are now the betting favorite to have Rodgers under center in 2023 with +175 odds. While Derek Carr is second with +300 odds.
As the waiting game continues, it is up to General Manager Joe Douglas to be aggressive in his pursuit of Rodgers.
With a ready-to-win team with all of its building blocks on rookie contracts, the time is now to land the big fish QB . One that isn’t going just to put you in playoff contention but put you in the Super Bowl conversation.
One thing is for sure is that the next few weeks are set up to be very interesting. A blockbuster deal could be in the works.
