The first domino has fallen. With nine head coach openings around the league, the Denver Broncos were the first to strike, by hiring Nathaniel Hackett to fill their vacancy. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Jags are finalizing the contract this morning
Several other teams were interested in Hackett, but the Jacksonville Jaguars have been most commonly linked to him. The Jags were actually set to interview Hackett later today, but the Broncos sped up the process and beat them to the punch.
Hackett got his start with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers back in 2006. He’s also worked for the Buffalo Bills and Jacksonville Jaguars in various roles spanning from quarterbacks coach to offensive coordinator, now he’ll get his first chance to be a head coach.
Nathaniel Hackett’s Packers experience could pay off in a big way
Previously the offensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, Hackett comes with the respect of Aaron Rodgers and Co. and gives the Broncos a rising star who should be able to help them solve their offensive woes. More importantly, general manager George Paton will now have to land their next franchise quarterback.
Could that QB potentially even be Aaron Rodgers? With the Green Bay Packers star openly questioning his future with the only franchise he’s ever known, plus their salary cap issues, AR12 may finally be on the move.
The Broncos have plenty of cap space, a built roster that could just be a QB away, and they just hired a coach Rodgers greatly respects. There’s also the possibility of a package deal, with Davante Adams signing in Denver as well. It’s an intriguing option, and with the Hackett hire, it could be one step closer to happening. Some have even suggested Rodgers and Adams “would love” to team up in Denver.