Hackett Gives Two-Word Answer on Rodgers's Future with Jets

Offensive coordinator offers promising outlook after quarterback's Achilles rupture

Author:
Ralph Ventre
Publish date:
Sep 14, 2023 12:51 PM EDT

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Robert Saleh provided a subtle hint about Aaron Rodgers's future on Wednesday and Nathaniel Hackett took it to the next level on Thursday.

Within the first minute of Hackett's weekly media availability, a reporter, while referencing the quarterback's September 13 social media post, asked the New York Jets' offensive coordinator, "Do you expect him to try to play next year?"

"Oh yea!" said Hackett, who knows Rodgers well from their mutual time with the Green Bay Packers. "Whenever Aaron's got his mind set on something, good luck for anybody that wants to change his mind."

The statement carries significant weight coming from Hackett, who is as close with the future Hall-of-Fame field general as anyone in the league. Rodgers has said that the offensive coordinator's hiring played a key part in the quarterback's decision to join the Jets.

One day earlier, the 39-year-old Rodgers made his first public comments since suffering a season-ending Achilles rupture four offensive snaps into the Monday Night Football season opener against the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium. Using his Instagram account, the four-time NFL MVP sent a message of gratitude to his supporters and ended by saying "The night is darkest before dawn. And I shall rise yet again. Proud of my guys, 1-0."

Prior to Rodgers's inspirational Instagram activity, Saleh sounded hopeful while addressing the topic of a possible return next season.

"I'd be shocked if this is the way he's gonna go out," said Saleh prior to Wednesday's light practice in Florham Park.

Rodgers has stated, multiple times, that he wasn't viewing his Jets' tenure as a "one-and-done" scenario.

"I’m taking it one year at a time. I’d love to play as long as I can," said the 19th-year pro on August 1. "As long as it’s fun, as long as my body feels good, as long as they want me. Yeah, I’d love to keep it rolling."

In the aftermath of Monday night's devastation, all signs seem to point toward Rodgers's intention to attack the recovery process and return to the field in 2024.