Christian Hackenberg speaks out about unfair criticism

Quarterback Christian Hackenberg recently chimed his thoughts about all the unfair criticism he’s gotten from reporters and fans of the New York Jets.

So far in his tenure with the New York Jets, fans, reporters, and analysts haven’t been all that fair when it comes to quarterback Christian Hackenberg. Whether you heard he overthrew passes near reporters on the sideline in mandatory minicamp or are judging based on preseason action last year, Hackenberg is still a rookie in the grand scheme of things.

He has yet to take a snap in a regular season football game but already, many believe the Jets might have overreached when selecting him in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Either way, Hackenberg has heard all the criticism and before mandatory minicamp was over, he addressed it via reporters.

Courtesy of the Media Relations Department of the Jets, here is what Hackenberg had to say about what he feels when it comes to being criticized as well as if it motivates him to silence such critics:

On if he feels he is unfairly criticized…

I don’t pay attention to it. You guys have a job to do, and I understand that and also have a job to do. Ultimately, I have to continue to trust in myself, trust in the situation I’m in and continue to get better and continue to grow. That’s my goal and that’s all I try to do. I’m a low-key guy. I really don’t see much, but that’s what I’m trying to do, and whatever it is I can’t control it.

On if the criticism gives him a chip on his shoulder…

No, I think ultimately in my opinion, the only people who’s opinions I really care about are the people I’m involved with every day and know exactly what’s going on in this building as an offense and as a team. My quarterback coach specifically. If those guys say something to me, I’m going to take that to heart because they know exactly what’s going on, every detail of it. That’s how I look at it.

Needless to say, Hackenberg addressed this well since again, all one can do is focus on themselves in such a situation. The Jets have surrounded Hackenberg with quality coaches and even a veteran mentor in Josh McCown to continue his development. All he can do is continue to hone his craft and be ready whenever his number is called.

It remains to be seen if Hackenberg will get any playing time this upcoming season but it’s nice to see the Jets take a smart approach when it comes to developing their younger quarterbacks. Bryce Petty got to sit out his rookie year as did Hackenberg since again, it’ll take time for them to be ready and considered for a starting role.

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While the Jets should ultimately see what either young quarterback can do, it’s nice to see that even unfair criticism doesn’t phase Hackenberg whatsoever. When playing in the city that never sleeps, having thick skin is needed in order to succeed.

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