The Jets' Biggest Problem Is Their OC Nathaniel Hackett

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The New York Jets do not think that offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett is capable of doing his job. How do we know this? Because reports from the offseason indicated that the team tried to hire an additional offensive coach that would’ve effectively undercut Hackett’s role as offensive coordinator.

The reason that the Jets went through all of that rigamarole instead of simply just firing Nathaniel Hackett is because Hackett is protected by his BFF, franchise quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Despite Hackett’s historically awful tenure as head coach of the Denver Broncos, his inability to adjust last season following Rodgers’ injury, and his own employer clearly believing he’s not up to snuff, Hackett remains employed as the OC of the NYJ and has one man to thank: Aaron Rodgers.

During the Jets Week 1 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, however, Hackett’s shortcomings were on full display, meaning might only be a matter of time until Rodgers faces questions about why he so ardently backs Hackett (other than his own personal feelings.)

“Jets back on their run-run-pass BS… The Jets offense was boring and uncreative last year. It was mostly the same tonight. Highly disappointing,” said The Athletic’s Zack Rosenblatt.

“My concerns with the Jets offense this season were limited to Nathaniel Hackett. I still have those concerns after tonight,” summarized SNY‘s Connor Hughes.

In his first regular-season game since January 2023, Rodgers completed 13 of 21 passes for 167 yards, one touchdown, and one interception (which came from a tipped pass).

To be fair to Hackett, the Jets’ coaching staff is, in general, one of the worst in the NFL. Saleh is now in his fourth season and has yet to show an ability to field a winning and well-coached football team. Unless Aaron Rodgers pulls off a miracle this season, it’ll likely be his last, too.

The Jets will look to get their much-anticipated, highly-pressurized season on the right track when the host the Tennessee Titans for their 2024/25 home opener in Week Two.