How does Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers feel about OC Nathaniel Hackett’s demotion?

Given the close-knit relationship that exists between the Jets’ star signal caller and the now-dismissed offensive coordinator, there were questions as to how the former would feel about the franchise’s decision to demote the latter. It appears everything is fine and dandy.

Aaron Rodgers is ‘supportive’ of Nathaniel Hackett’s demotion

If you caught our previous report, then you know that on Thursday, New York Jets interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich informed the media that offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett would be demoted and so, stripped of his play-calling duties. Further to that Ulbrich explained that said duties would be passed on to passing game coordinator Todd Downing. Needless to say, it was a puzzling moment as former head coach Robert Saleh who was fired on Tuesday, reportedly intended to do the same.

Nonetheless, the focus quickly turned to quarterback Aaron Rodgers who as mentioned before is known to be very close to Hackett, something not entirely surprising when one considers the idea that they worked together during Rodgers’ time with the Green Bay Packers. For his part, Ulbrich did disclose details about the signal caller’s reaction to the news that Hackett would be less involved. Stating that Rodgers was “supportive”, Ulbrich then went on to explain the decision-making process itself. “It was obviously...not necessarily shocked, but we all are familiar with the relationship he has with Nathaniel,” Ulbrich said. “And they’re very, very good friends that go back a long way. And I’m fortunate for that. So, I talked to him, I talked to a lot of offensive players—and defensive players for that matter - before making this decision.”

Now, what’s strange here is the use of the words, ‘not necessarily shocked’ which would suggest that Hackett had it coming. When viewed in the context of Rodgers comments about Hackett last season, when he fiercely defended Hackett after critique from Broncos coach Sean Payton, it’s hard to believe that Rodgers just simply accepted it. “He (Hackett) is arguably my favorite coach I’ve ever had in the NFL. I thought it was way out of line, inappropriate, and I think he needs to keep my coaches’ names out of his mouth,” Rodgers said at the time in response to Payton. Regardless, as the Jets prepare for Week 6, they are ranked 27th in yards per game and 25th in points per game which is to say, they are one of the worst offenses in the league.

Speculation aside, Rodgers for his part did openly speak about the situation during his his weekly appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on Wednesday, stating that he continues to maintain a very healthy relationship with Hackett. “Our relationship is great,” Rodgers said. “It always has been and always will be. There was going to be some things that needed to be changed regardless of what happened to Robert and we just haven’t been playing consistent on offense.” Up next for the new-look Jets is a date with the Buffalo Bills in what could be considered a must-win game.