NFL analyst Ryan Clark rips Jets over Nathaniel Hackett hiring

The criticism didn't end there. Clark continued, calling out the Jets, "You know why you went out and got him. You didn't get him because he just performed this phenomenal deed in Denver."

Clark implied Hackett's hiring indicates the Jets are attempting to lure four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers to New York. Rumors have been circulating about this possibility since the announcement of the hire. 

In Clark's opinion, if the Jets hired Hackett solely to strengthen their chances of acquiring Rodgers, then it was a stupid decision on their part, and he's not wrong. The Broncos had the same idea last year when they hired Hackett, and look how that turned out for them. 

While Hackett may have been a terrible HC, he has had previous success as a play-caller.

The 43-year-old spent three seasons as Green Bay's OC from 2019-21. In 2020, the Packers averaged 31.8 points per game, the most in the NFL. 

During Hackett's tenure as Jacksonville's OC, the 2017 Jaguars averaged the fifth most points per game (26.1), with Blake Bortles as the team's starting QB. 

When speaking to the media on Thursday, Jets HC Robert Saleh said the team is "committed to finding a veteran" QB to bring in this offseason. This decision influenced their OC search and raised speculation regarding Rodgers. Saleh also mentioned that no specific names of QBs were discussed internally for obvious tampering reasons.

It's not a guarantee that Rodgers will come to New York, but given his uncertain future in Green Bay, there’s a decent chance Hackett's hiring may entice him. The Jets have a solid roster outside of QB, so by bringing in Rodgers, they'd be well-positioned to end their 12-year playoff drought next season.