Allen Lazard says Nathaniel Hackett is “best teacher I’ve ever had”
Former Packers wide receiver Allen Lazard and the New York Jets recently came to terms on a new contract. Although the Jets are in the process of trading for Lazard’s former quarterback Aaron Rodgers, a former coach may have been the largest contributing factor to Lazard signing with New York.
Former Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett was Lazard’s offensive coordinator in Green Bay for three seasons. Hackett and Lazard will now have the chance to work together once again. Hackett was hired to be the Jets’ new offensive coordinator back in January. During his introductory press conference, Allen Lazard regarded Hackett as, “The best teacher I’ve ever had in my life.” There is clearly mutual respect and chemistry between Lazard and Hackett.
After finishing 2022 ranked twenty-ninth in points scored, the Jets wasted no time in adding offensive weapons. They will be relying on their new additions to improve their very mediocre offense. Specifically, Allen Lazard, Nathaniel Hackett, and potentially four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers.
Why Lazard will improve the Jets’ offense
Allen Lazard is coming off the most productive season of his career. Accumulating 60 receptions, 788 yards, and six touchdowns. Since joining the league in 2018 as an undrafted free agent, Lazard has displayed steady improvement as a receiver. This improvement earned Lazard a four year, 44 million dollar contract with the Jets.
Lazard will be joining a receiving corps in New York that includes three first round draft selections. Garrett Wilson and Corey Davis. Both receivers have shown potential and glimpses as to why they were selected in the first round. Nevertheless, with an underachieving quarterback like Zach Wilson, the 2022 Jets offense left a lot to be desired. Allen Lazard will help round out a receiver group in need of some veteran leadership.
The decision to reunite Allen Lazard and Nathaniel Hackett will improve the Jets offense in 2023. Reuniting both with Aaron Rodgers could potentially create the perfect storm for New York to compete in a stacked AFC conference. Only time will tell.
