Buffalo Bills OC Nathaniel Hackett excited about EJ Manuel
By Cory Buck
E.J. Manuel has plenty to prove in 2014 with the Buffalo Bills with training camp just around the corner. While there has been plenty of talk, both good and bad, surrounding the second year quarterback, it is that very nature of his position that excites offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett.
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Hackett told reporters in a video interview posted to the team’s website that he has seen improvement from Manuel ‘without a doubt’.
"“The biggest thing is always the quarterback. Being familiar with the system. Being familiar with the guys he’s out there with. That’s going to dramatically help him also.”"
One of the main knocks on Manuel last season was his inefficiency with deep passes. He either passed them up too often or threw inaccurate deep balls when he did take a shot. Hackett insists that dumping the ball and taking what’s given is only going to further help Manuel. “That’s what quarterbacks do — take what they’re given. He’s going to understand his reads and be able to focus on the details. He can slowly take what’s given.”
While Bills fans won’t rest easy until they’ve seen a few tight spirals from Manuel in meaningful game day action, it’s hard to deny the enthusiasm of Hackett. He believes his team has their guy and that their guy is ready to make a leap. Ready or not, the 2014 Buffalo Bills are E.J. Manuel’s team. If his coach is any indication, it could be a good one for all parties involved.