Watch: Aaron Rodgers destroys Sean Payton after disrespecting former Packers coach (Video)

What did Sean Payton expect?

Payton trashed former Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett this week, describing his work with the Denver Broncos as "one of the worst coaching jobs in the history of the NFL."

It was a disrespectful and embarrassing interview from Payton. And completely unnecessary. Why he felt the need to throw the former Packers and Broncos coach under the bus is puzzling.

Aaron Rodgers was having none of it.

Hackett is a close friend of Rodgers'. They worked together for three seasons in Green Bay, and Hackett is now the New York Jets' offensive coordinator.

Watch: Aaron Rodgers fires back at Sean Payton for disrespecting former Packers coach

Rodgers spoke to Peter Schrager of NFL Network and was asked about Payton's comments.

Before giving his response about Payton, Rodgers made sure to speak about his love and appreciation for Hackett.

"I love Nathaniel Hackett. Those comments were very surprising," said Rodgers. "He's arguably my favorite coach I've ever had in the NFL. His approach to it, how he makes it fun, how he cares about the guys. How he goes about his business, with respect, with leadership, with honesty, with integrity."

And he didn't hold back about Payton's interview.

Rodgers said: "It made me feel bad that someone who has accomplished a lot in the league is that insecure that they have to take another man down to set themselves up for some sort of easy fall if it doesn't go well for that team this year. I thought it was way out of line, inappropriate, and I think he needs to keep my coaches' names out of his mouth."

Rodgers is spot on, and it's great to see him publicly defending his coach and friend.

Packers fans appreciate Hackett for the time he spent in Green Bay. He did a great job working with the offense, and he is an even better person. Just because last season didn't work out in Denver, it doesn't make it right for Payton to show such a lack of respect.

What was the point? Hackett isn't there anymore, and Payton can prove the talent his team has by winning games this fall.

It was a terrible look for the former New Orleans Saints head coach, and Rodgers gave the perfect response to defend Hackett.

Rodgers and Hackett reunited this offseason in New York, and their mission is to finally win a Super Bowl together. Jets fans have waited far too long for another championship. If the two can replicate the success they had together with the Packers, they will have every chance of winning it all this season.

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