The Denver Broncos recently announced that Nathaniel Hackett would be the team’s 18th head coach in franchise history.
He will be taking over Vic Fangio, who lasted three seasons at the Mile High City and finished with a 19-30 record.
The Broncos faithful should feel optimistic that he can help turn around the team’s fortunes as they have not returned to the playoffs since their victory in Super Bowl 50.
Officially official. ✍️ pic.twitter.com/unxW1sZA3K
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) January 28, 2022
Aside from lagging, their division rivals in the AFC West have good quarterbacks in Derek Carr, Justin Herbert, and Patrick Mahomes.
However, there is much optimism around the Broncos, especially with a new ownership group potentially coming in.
But keeping the conversation on football matters alone, here’s why the team’s die-hard fans must feel thrilled about Hackett’s hiring.
3. He’s An Offensive-Minded Coach
Fangio deserves some credit for improving the Broncos’ defense.
By the end of the regular season, Denver ranked eighth in total yards allowed (326.1) and passing yards allowed (214.8) per game.
They also limited opponents to 18.9 points per game, the third-best in the league.
The Broncos have solid players in Bradley Chubb, Justin Simmons, and Pat Surtain II.
Even without Fangio, this unit will continue to perform well.
Nathaniel Hackett is exactly the opposite of Vic Fangio
He has passion and energy #Broncos pic.twitter.com/pXZh3n8RDI
— Denver Broncos 365 (@DailyBroncos) January 25, 2022
Unfortunately, having him at the helm made the offense neglected.
With Hackett coming in, the Broncos will finally maximize the talent they have within their unit.
Running backs Melvin Gordon III and Javonte Williams will improve under Hackett’s scheme.
The receiving unit of Tim Patrick, Courtland Sutton, Jerry Jeudy, and Noah Fant will also benefit from the plays he will design.
2. Hackett Has Extensive Experience
Even if he’s just 42 years old, Hackett has already been coaching for close to two decades.
He was the Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator for three seasons, helping Aaron Rodgers become one of the league’s best players.
His system also allowed Davante Adams to become arguably the NFL’s best wideout.
Hackett was also the offensive coordinator of the 2017 Jacksonville Jaguars that led the league in rushing yards per game, thanks to Leonard Fournette.
That team made it to the AFC Championship Game but lost to the New England Patriots.
Aside from Green Bay and Jacksonville, he’s also held various offensive coaching positions for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Buffalo Bills, Stanford, and Syracuse.
There’s no defensive alignment he hasn’t seen, and his wisdom will help the young Broncos improve their football intelligence.
1. His Presence Might Attract Rodgers and Adams
Rodgers can ask for a trade before the 2022 season starts, while Adams is a free agent.
The Packers are back to being contenders if Rodgers stays and Adams signs a multi-year extension.
However, there’s a chance that the Green Bay front office will give the franchise tag to their ace wide receiver.
If both players are not happy with the situation, they can reunite with the man that helped them become elite pros.
Denver Broncos coaching candidate Nathaniel Hackett with a incredible answer about coaching anyone as if they’re a starter.
Love this answer. pic.twitter.com/eX8aICNDUk
— ᴄᴀᴍᴇʀᴏɴ ᴘᴀʀᴋᴇʀ (@CameronParkerPO) January 11, 2022
Denver has the salary cap room and the assets to strike a deal with the Packers.
Likewise, Rodgers and Adams need not adjust to a new system that can make the Broncos’ offense soar.
With Hackett in place, the Broncos’ odds of possibly getting the multiple-time MVP and the two-time All-Pro receiver just got better.
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