Jets’ Hiring of OC Nathaniel Hackett Fuels Aaron Rodgers Rumors

Could Rodgers and Hackett reunite in New York?

As Aaron Rodgers’ future in Green Bay remains a focal point throughout the NFL this offseason, a notable coaching hire has fueled the flames of speculation.

The Jets hired former Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett as their new offensive coordinator on Thursday, which has plenty around the league wondering whether that could lead the team to pursue Rodgers in a trade. Hackett was the offensive coordinator with the Packers from 2019 to ’21, a three-year run that saw Rodgers win two MVP awards.

New York jumped out to a promising 7–4 start to the 2022–23 season, before losing six straight games to end the year and miss the playoffs. The team ranked 29th in the league in points per game (17.4) and 25th in yards per game (318.2).

Rodgers signed a three-year contract worth over $150 million back in March, which is set to earn him nearly $60 million in 2023. If the Packers decide they want to change directions as a franchise after missing the playoffs this year, there should be no shortage of suitors for the four-time MVP. And Rodgers’ connection to (and success with) Hackett could be the spark for a potential Big Apple reunion.

Nathaniel Hackett could he sitting on a beach collecting millions for the next four years.

You telling me he signed on for pressure of being NY’s OC without knowing damn well who his QB is?

He’s be a fool to risk further tarnishing rep to coach Wilson, Tannehill or Jimmy G https://t.co/BoJvcjGhom

— Connor Hughes (@Connor_J_Hughes) January 26, 2023

"What a great setup for Nathaniel Hackett. ... This does set up for the Jets trading for Aaron Rodgers — that's why they're bringing in Hackett." — @getnickwright pic.twitter.com/8iJCzyxItb

— What’s Wright? with Nick Wright (@WhatsWrightShow) January 26, 2023

The Hackett hire, no doubt, fans the Rodgers flames. But this doesn't mean the #Jets are getting him. Rodgers is not a free agent; his rights are controlled by the #Packers, who may opt to keep him. Nobody knows at this point.

— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) January 26, 2023

If the #Jets truly still believe in Zach Wilson, it’s not crazy to think the best thing for him would be to bring Aaron Rodgers in and let Zach sit behind him. Wilson grew up admiring Rodgers and Rodgers has spoken highly about Wilson.

Not that crazy anymore… pic.twitter.com/JSHq2lUlMH

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) January 26, 2023