Jets Made ‘Legitimate Attempts’ To Replace OC Nathaniel Hackett, Will Lean On Aaron Rodgers To ‘Correct' Him

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The New York Jets' offense was less than impressive in 2023. Of course, much of that has to do with losing their future Hall of Fame quarterback to a torn Achilles just four plays into the season. But you can't blame Aaron Rodgers' injury for everything. That's why offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett is in the hot seat.

The Jets made "legitimate attempts" this offseason to upgrade their offensive coaching staff, according to SNY's Connor Hughes. And that meant taking some power away from Hackett.

"The Jets made legitimate attempts this offseason to hire someone who would, essentially, replace Hackett," Hughes wrote. "Not as a new offensive coordinator, but a title above who would run the show. The Jets had enough things they needed to address this offseason without replacing areas they’re content with. That pursuit tells me, internally, there are legitimate concerns with Hackett’s ability to successfully run things."

Nathaniel Hackett

Can Nathaniel Hackett "hack it" as the Jets' OC with a healthy Aaron Rodgers?

(Photo by RJ Sangosti/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images)

Hackett was a questionable hire for OC in New York last year — especially after he completely bombed as head coach of the Denver Broncos in 2022. He was fired halfway through that season.

But Rodgers spoke highly of Hackett, who was his OC for three seasons in Green Bay. So the question now is: Are the Jets too scared to fire Hackett because of his relationship with the QB? Or do they just trust Rodgers to guide the ship — despite the OC's shortcomings?

"It almost feels like the Jets are putting so much faith in Rodgers’ ability to correct Hackett’s wrongdoings," Hughes wrote. "Sources spoke of many, many times last summer, where Hackett called a play, then Rodgers changed it completely at the line. They figure he can do the same come the regular season.

"If there’s one major concern heading into the Jets season, it’s that: Hackett."

Jets Made ‘Legitimate Attempts’ To Replace OC Nathaniel Hackett, Will Lean On Aaron Rodgers To ‘Correct' Him

Nathaniel Hackett and Aaron Rodgers formed a tight relationship in Green Bay.

(Chris Pedota, NorthJ / The Record via USA TODAY Sports)

Last season, the Jets' offense finished 29th in points scored and 31st in yards. Leadership might not come right out and say it, but it certainly feels like both Hackett and head coach Robert Saleh are coaching for their jobs in 2024.