New York Jets offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett. Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Jets HC Robert Saleh explains decision on OC Nathaniel Hackett

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 5/22/24

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers' season-ending Achilles injury just four snaps into the 2023 season put additional pressure on offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett.

While the Jets had two of the most explosive playmakers in running back Breece Hall and wideout Garrett Wilson, their offense was stuck in neutral nearly all season with Zach Wilson (and later Tim Boyle and Trevor Siemian) under center.

Hackett's unit was shut out once, scored fewer than 10 points four times and only went over 22 points on three occasions, finishing the campaign 29th in the NFL in scoring (15.8 points per game).

Though head coach Robert Saleh wouldn't discuss if he attempted to replace Hackett in the offseason, he did give a notable update on his job description on Tuesday.

Robert Saleh said that Nathaniel Hackett will remain the #Jets primary play-caller.

"Last year was a tremendous learning experience for everybody ... it's about building an offense that can weather the storm of injury. Last year we got caught behind the eight ball."
— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) May 21, 2024

Saleh and Hackett desperately need both a healthy and successful Rodgers in 2024 for the sake of their job security.

Hackett and Rodgers had three big seasons together with the Green Bay Packers from 2019-2021, teaming up for two of the signal-caller's MVP campaigns and leading some prolific offenses. The coordinator has since become known for his much-criticized 2022 season as the Denver Broncos head coach, though, and his shortcomings last year on the Jets' sideline.

Gang Green has shown slight improvement over Saleh's three seasons with the organization, but they're still seeking their first playoff berth since the 2010 campaign. Entering 2024 with just an 18-33 mark in New York, Saleh's fourth season with the franchise is critical.

The Jets return both Hall and Wilson this fall as the two biggest playmakers and signed both eight-time Pro Bowl offensive tackle Tyron Smith and former Los Angeles Chargers star wide receiver Mike Williams in March.

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