NEWSLETTER
Well, Nathaniel Hackett’s unemployment didn’t last long. A month after he was fired in Denver, he’s got a new gig, according to Tom Pelissero. Hackett is heading to New York to be the new offensive coordinator for the Jets.
Hackett was fired by the Broncos after just 15 games, marking one of the shortest head coaching tenures in NFL history.
Hackett and the Broncos lost 51-14 to the Rams on Christmas Day. The Broncos’ sideline imploded when offensive lineman Dalton Risner and backup quarterback Brett Rypien were seen getting into a physical altercation at one point. That was all the Broncos’ new ownership needed to see from Hackett before firing him.
Still, Hackett was a hot head coaching candidate during the last hiring cycle for a reason. He was well-regarded as the offensive coordinator during his time in Green Bay. Hackett has also previously worked with Jets head coach Robert Saleh. In addition, Hackett has called plays in Buffalo and Jacksonville before his stops in Green Bay and Denver.
The new job in New York will be no small ask. The Jets’ offense was terrible, and Hackett will be tasked with fixing Zach Wilson, whom the Jets are apparently sticking with. At least for now.
The Jets ranked 29th in scoring (17.4 points per game) and 25th in yardage (318.2 yards per game) in 2022. Former No. 2 overall pick Zach Wilson was benched multiple times for poor play.
Aaron Rodgers is also a wrinkle to this hire that will fuel the rumor mill in the coming weeks. Hackett and Rodgers worked together in Green Bay, and the Jets may be on the hunt for a veteran quarterback and have already been mentioned as potential suitors for Rodgers.
