Broncos GM releases statement explaining decision to hire Nathaniel Hackett

It’s official. Nathaniel Hackett is the new Denver Broncos head coach — and his GM shared his rationale for the decision.

Hackett spent the last three seasons at the Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator and takes over for Vic Fangio, whom the Broncos fired after the season. Broncos general manager George Paton released a statement explaining why he hired Hackett to replace Fangio.

“Nathaniel Hackett is a dynamic leader and coach whose intelligence, innovation and charisma impressed us from the very start of this process,” Paton said in a statement. “In addition to having a brilliant offensive mind, Nathaniel is an outstanding teacher and communicator with a strong vision for all three phases of our team.

“Getting to know Nathaniel over the last couple weeks, he will bring positive energy and enthusiasm to the entire Denver Broncos organization as our head coach. … From developing younger players to working with all-time greats as a key part of winning teams. Nathaniel has had tremendous success in this league. He’s a student of the game and knows how to put players in positions to win.”

Broncos officially announce Nathaniel Hackett as head coach

The Broncos are the first domino to fall among NFL head coaching openings. Denver has announced their hiring former Packers offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett as their next head coach.

Originally, the Broncos planned to interview more candidates. However, according to Mike Klis of 9News, Hackett impressed them so much they didn’t want him to leave the building.

“Sources: Paton started the week with plan to have 2nd interviews w/Hackett, Quinn, O’Connell,” revealed Klis. “But Hackett so impressed Paton and many others inside Broncos HQ Paton regrouped, decided to get his guy. After 11 interviews in 8 cities, Broncos first team to hire new head coach.”

Since Gary Kubiak left the Broncos, Denver has chosen two separate defensive coaches to lead their team. First, Vance Joseph took over the reigns in 2017, going 11-21 in two seasons. Then, Vic Fangio got his chance — winning 19 games in three seasons before being let go.

In recent seasons, it’s been the Broncos offense that’s held the team back. Additionally, their inability to find their quarterback of the future has hurt the team. Many experts believe the team should hire an offensive coach, and Hackett fits the bill.

Now, he gets his shot. Nathaniel Hackett will be the coach of the Denver Broncos.