Having Aaron Rodgers in your corner can make a significant difference.
Despite being on the brink of their third consecutive losing season and enduring a 13-year playoff drought, New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas are reportedly secure in their positions and expected to return for the next season. Surprisingly, embattled offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett is also anticipated to retain his job.
According to a recent report from The Athletic, Jets ownership is extending another opportunity to the coaching staff and general manager, and this decision is primarily influenced by Aaron Rodgers.
Internally, the Jets are operating as if the whole regime — Saleh, Douglas and even offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett — will be back in 2024. That’s because Aaron Rodgers is their lifeline.
Rodgers has the power to ensure their job security: If he says that he’ll return only if this coaching staff remains intact, then it will be locked in and safe. Johnson values Rodgers’ opinion and it would be surprising if he didn’t seek it out.
Rodgers, although yet to complete a pass for the New York Jets due to tearing his Achilles just four plays into the 2023 season, holds considerable sway within the organization. Internally, the Jets are operating under the assumption that the entire coaching regime—Saleh, Douglas, and Hackett—will remain intact in 2024, primarily because Rodgers is viewed as their key connection.
Rodgers possesses the ability to ensure job security for the coaching staff. If he insists on their retention for his return, it is expected to be honored. Jets owner Woody Johnson values Rodgers’ opinion, making it likely that he seeks it out.
While this development might not be surprising from Florham Park, it is disappointing for Jets fans. Hackett, in particular, has faced criticism for his performance as offensive coordinator, with some seeing his association with Rodgers as the primary reason for his continued position.
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Rodgers has also played a role in the recruitment of players like Allen Lazard, Randall Cobb, Dalvin Cook, Billy Turner, and Tim Boyle, who have had limited impact this season.
Rodgers’ commitment to Hackett is rooted in his personal preference for the offensive system: “I won MVP twice in the same offense, so I’m a believer. I’m a believer in the offense,” Rodgers stated in November.
Despite the Jets being virtually eliminated from playoff contention, reports suggest that Rodgers is determined to play for the team in the final month of the 2023 season. However, there are concerns about the potential risks, especially considering his previous injury.
