Aaron Rodgers supports Jets OC Nathaniel Hackett, criticizes Broncos coach Sean Payton

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

In a recent interview, Aaron Rodgers, the quarterback for the New York Jets, expressed his frustration with Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton's critical comments about his offensive coordinator, Nathaniel Hackett. Payton had described Hackett's coaching performance with the Broncos last season as one of the worst in NFL history. Rodgers defended Hackett, stating that Payton's comments were inappropriate and out of line. He also criticized Payton for being insecure and trying to bring others down to elevate himself. Rodgers emphasized his strong bond with Hackett, calling him his favorite coach in the NFL.

Payton's comments also extended to the Jets as a whole, accusing them of trying to win the offseason and comparing them to the Broncos under Hackett, who he claimed were embarrassed by their attempts. Jets coach Robert Saleh responded to Payton's remarks by praising Hackett's performance and stating that the team is focused on their own progress despite the negativity from others.

In a later statement, Payton expressed regret for his comments about Hackett and mentioned that he would reach out to both Hackett and Saleh to apologize. He admitted that his remarks were made in a moment when he was still in a different mindset as a Fox Sports analyst, rather than as a coach returning to the sideline after a year's break.

Rodgers found Payton's initial comments surprising and criticized him for attacking another coach. The exchange between Payton and Rodgers has added an extra layer of excitement to the Jets' upcoming game against the Broncos in Week 5. Payton acknowledged that his comments would generate more interest in the game, although it still feels like a long way off.

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