Jets tried to hire Nathaniel Hackett replacement, but there’s a catch

After making numerous additions and with the looming return of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, the New York Jets are expecting massive growth from their offense next time they take the field. But for all the changes New York endured, offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett will still be the one calling the shots.

But as the Jets thought about their offense throughout the offseason, Hackett leading the charge wasn’t always the vision. New York made, ‘legitimate attempts,’ to hire a candidate that would essentially be the offensive coordinator’s replacement, via Connor Hughes of SNY.

The Jets weren’t necessarily searching for a new offensive coordinator. Instead, they wanted to hire someone who would work above Hackett, ‘running the show,’ for the offense. Ultimately, New York decided not to pursue those plans as Hackett remains in his role.

But even as the offensive coordinator, Hackett hasn’t always had full control of the offense. Throughout his first offseason with the Jets, Rodgers oftentimes changed Hackett’s play call at the line of scrimmage, Hughes confirmed. New York is seemingly relying on Rodgers being able to execute that gameplan over an entire season.

With a resume like Aaron Rodgers, the quarterback has more than enough respect and knowledge to craft his own game plan. However, a strong offensive coordinator makes the unit more cohesive and makes it easier to develop a gameplan.

The Jets are still rolling with Nathaniel Hackett, partially due to his connection with Rodgers. But New York is well aware of their offensive problems from 2023. With all the positive changes made to the offense, plus the Jets getting their quarterback left, a slow start could end Hackett’s tenure with the team.

Nathaniel Hackett’s journey to Jets