Nathaniel Hackett Describes Aaron Rodgers's 'Superpower'

Quarterback's presence provides value, inspiration for Jets' offense

Robert Saleh called him a "special human" on Wednesday.

One day later, New York Jets' offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett offered thoughts on quarterback Aaron Rodgers and his return to practice at One Jets Drive.

"His superpower is not necessarily how he throws the football or how he runs an offense out there, but just how he is with the team, how he approaches everyone, how he pushes everyone just with his presence," said Hackett.

Arguably nobody on the Jets' coaching staff knows how "special" Rodgers is better than Hackett. The two men are bonded by the three seasons they spent together in Green Bay with the decorated field general twice winning NFL MVP during that time.

Even without returning to game action, Rodgers can make a difference by simply being present. With the Jets opening his 21-day activation window, the soon-to-be 40-year-old was on the practice field Wednesday.

"I think anytime a guy like Aaron Rodgers is around. It is going to help everyone that he surrounds himself with," said Hackett.

In particular, Rodgers may prove helpful to current starting quarterback Tim Boyle. 

"I think just support and confidence. All of us have been together for a long time when you look at Tim, Aaron and myself. I think that is always going to help," said Hackett.

Boyle was a member of a Rodgers-led quarterbacks' room in 2019 and 2020. 

"Obviously, you could tell his presence was missed," said Boyle on Wednesday. "Coming back today, he's the same joking, happy individual who brings a lot of energy and wisdom to this offense."

Hackett addressed reporters during his weekly press briefing prior to Thursday's practice in Florham Park. The Jets are preparing to host the Atlanta Falcons on December 3 at MetLife Stadium.

Tim Boyle talks about his relationship with Aaron Rodgers: pic.twitter.com/CPpKmvrdTD

— Jets Videos (@snyjets) November 29, 2023

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