Jets' Offensive Struggles Prompt Retention of Hackett and Rebuff from Smith
The New York Jets have confirmed that Nathaniel Hackett will continue as the offensive play-caller for the 2024 season, despite contemplating significant changes following a dismal 2023 campaign. The Jets, who finished 31st in points per possession and dead last in yards per possession, faced scrutiny for their underwhelming offensive performance.
Behind closed doors, the Jets' leadership weighed their options, considering whether to replace Hackett. The coaching staff and upper management mulled over the possibility of bringing in Arthur Smith, the former head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, to inject new life into their lagging offense.
Arthur Smith's Potential Role
Reports indicated that Smith, who oversaw the Falcons before being dismissed in January, was a candidate for a significant role with the Jets. His prior experience and offensive acumen made him an attractive option for a team desperate for improvement. There was even talk about Smith "possibly being part of the play-calling process," hinting at a collaborative approach towards revamping the Jets' offensive strategies.
However, the specifics of the role Smith would have on Robert Salah's coaching staff were ambiguous. As noted, "the role that he'd actually have on Robert Salah's coaching staff was not clear." This lack of clarity might have contributed to Smith’s decision to decline the potential position with the Jets.
Decline and Departure
Ultimately, Arthur Smith declined the overture from New York, opting instead to join the Pittsburgh Steelers as their offensive coordinator under the respected Mike Tomlin. Smith's decision came as a blow to the Jets' hopes of rejuvenating their offense with new leadership and ideas.
Sticking with the Status Quo
Given the situation, the Jets faced a critical decision. Staring down another year of potential offensive struggles, they chose to stick with Nathaniel Hackett, hoping for improvements rather than wholesale changes. Hackett's tenure thus far has been far from stellar, and many fans and analysts alike are skeptical about the potential for a turnaround without significant adjustments.
The Jets' hesitancy to make a definitive change leaves questions lingering as they head into the 2024 season. Their poor showing in key areas such as third-down conversion rates and red zone efficiency—the worst in the league last year—underscores the challenges ahead. Without clear improvements, the burden on Hackett and the offensive unit will be immense.
As the offseason progresses, the spotlight will remain firmly on the Jets' coaching staff and their ability—or inability—to address the persistent issues that have plagued their offense. With Arthur Smith’s expertise now contributing to the Steelers, the Jets must find ways within their current roster and coaching team to reverse their fortunes.
In the high-stakes world of the NFL, outcomes are the ultimate measure of success. For the Jets, 2024 will be a critical juncture to prove whether the decision to retain Hackett can pay off or if the missed opportunity with Smith will be a regrettable chapter in their ongoing struggle for offensive prowess.