Deborah Walker
Jul 31, 2023 - 02:05

'Jets QB Aaron Rodgers Supports Nathaniel Hackett and Responds to Broncos HC Sean Payton'

Aaron Rodgers defends his offensive coordinator, Nathaniel Hackett, after critical comments from Broncos' head coach, Sean Payton.

In a recent interview, Aaron Rodgers expressed his support for his offensive coordinator, Nathaniel Hackett, and fired back at Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton for his critical comments. Payton had referred to Hackett's coaching stint with the Broncos as "one of the worst coaching jobs in the history of the NFL." Rodgers was clearly bothered by Payton's remarks and defended Hackett, stating that Payton's comments were out of line and inappropriate.

Rodgers, who was acquired by the New York Jets in April, praised Hackett as one of his favorite coaches in the NFL. The two had previously worked together in Green Bay and had achieved success, with Rodgers winning two NFL MVP awards under Hackett's guidance.

Payton's criticism didn't stop at Hackett. He also took shots at the Jets, describing them as another team "trying to win the offseason." Payton claimed that the Broncos, under Hackett's leadership, had tried to win the offseason and ended up being "embarrassed."

Jets coach Robert Saleh defended Hackett, stating that he was doing a phenomenal job with the team. Saleh also acknowledged that there were people who were hoping for the Jets to fail, but the team was solely focused on themselves.

Following the backlash, Payton expressed regret for his comments and stated that he would reach out to Hackett and Saleh to apologize. He admitted that his remarks were made in the wrong context and that he still had his "Fox hat" on instead of his coaching hat.

Rodgers found Payton's initial comments surprising and believed that it was inappropriate for one coach to criticize another coach in such a manner. The exchange between Payton and Rodgers has added more excitement to the Jets' upcoming game against the Broncos in Week 5 on October 8.

Overall, this controversy has shed light on the strong bond between Rodgers and Hackett and has sparked a discussion about the appropriate way for coaches to handle criticism within the NFL.