The Jets will rely on Nathaniel Hackett as their offensive coordinator and play-caller in 2024, but his job security has been a talking point during the offseason. New York sought out a de facto Hackett replacement following his first season at the helm; more details on that front have emerged. 
One of the candidates the Jets contacted in their search for a veteran offensive mind was Arthur Smith, Dianna Russini reported on the initial episode of The Athletic’s Scoop City podcast. Smith – who was fired after the conclusion of his third season as head coach of the Falcons – may have had a role in offensive play-calling had New York followed through with a hire. Russini added quarterback Aaron Rodgers was “made aware” of the general efforts on the team’s part to supplement Hackett on the coaching staff.
After a three-year run as a non play-calling OC with Rodgers and the Packers, Hackett received his first head coaching opportunity with the Broncos in 2022. His tenure in the Mile High City lasted less than one year after a disastrous outing in charge of the team. His hire as offensive coordinator of the Jets led to high expectations upon reuniting with Rodgers, but the latter’s Week 1 Achilles tear derailed New York’s season.
The Jets finished near the bottom of the league in most offensive categories in 2023 as the team struggled to find production in the passing game in particular. Hackett – along with head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas received a mulligan from ownership, however. Hackett has also received public praise from Rodgers and a vote of confidence that a heathy season under center will produce the desired results on offense in 2024.
Smith’s head coaching stock was generated during his time as OC of the Titans. His Atlanta tenure consisted of three consecutive 7-10 seasons, though, and the team’s offense did not produce as expected. The 42-year-old was hired by the Steelers as their new offensive coordinator, and his experience with ground-heavy attacks could mesh well in Pittsburgh. Considering the extent to which the Jets’ offense will rely on running back Breece Hall in 2024, Smith may have also fit in as a key figure on New York’s staff.
In any event, attention will continue to be focused on Rodgers’ health and Hackett’s play-calling effectiveness as the Jets aim to rebound on offense this season. Questions about the latter’s future could intensify if New York is unable to do so, something which could prompt another search for new voices along the sidelines.
Lmao
Dodged a bullet there! Then again who is better Hackett or Smith? Good luck in Pittsburgh.
Smith is better. He certainly had weak points in Atlanta, but he has play calling chops and did a great job in Tennessee. Hackett was only seen as successful when he was working with a hall of fame QB and a head coach who did the offensive scheming and play calling. I would much rather the Jets had Smith than Hackett.
This is not close. Hackett was a flat disaster and only has an nfl job because of Rodgers. Was a horrendous HC and fell flat with the Jets. Hackett is a one trick pony that relies on Rodgers for a welfare check
Hey, Hackett doesn’t only have an NFL job because of Rodgers. He’s also a nepo baby.
I’d take a few seasons of OC welfare checks!