![](https://broncoswire.usatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/08/Sean-Payton-Hard-Knocks.jpg?w=1000&h=600&crop=1)
HBO and NFL Films released the first 2023 episode of Hard Knocks on Tuesday. This year, camera crews are following the New York Jets through training camp and preseason.
Before camp started, Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton went viral when he slammed ex-Broncos coach Nathaniel Hackett, who now serves as an offensive coordinator with the Jets.
Payton’s comments spurred plenty of reactions from New York, but Hard Knocks didn’t give much attention to the incident. The show included already-aired public responses from Hackett, head coach Robert Saleh and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but no behind-the-scenes conversations or show-specific interviews were featured.
That wasn’t Payton’s only reference in the first episode, though. Hackett and Rodgers have a passing accuracy competition after practice and they attempt to psyche each other out “BASEketball” style.
As Hackett is about to throw, Rodgers shouts “Sean Payton!” to throw off the coach.
“That was a good one,” Hackett admitted.
Aaron Rodgers and the Jets. BASEketball fans. “SEAN PAYTON” #HardKnocks pic.twitter.com/OlWXOz3pqZ
— Jordan Dajani (@JordanDajani) August 9, 2023
The Broncos will host the Jets in Week 5 this season in a game that will be must-watch TV.
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