Billy Turner raves about Hackett as a big reason he returned to Broncos

Broncos offensive lineman Billy Turner isn’t new to Denver.

But it’s a brand new team from the last time he was on the Broncos.

Turner, who played for Denver from 2016-2018 before heading to Green Bay, had his introductory press conference on Tuesday and raved about Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett. The two worked together with the Packers the last three seasons, with Hackett as offensive coordinator and Turner playing all over the offensive line.

When Hackett made the move to Denver, Turner was keen on following him.

“Me and Hackett are cut from a similar cloth. We’re able to have conversations that aren’t specifically about football. We can talk about every day life situations. It’s funny talking to him a week or two ago, we can also just sit in silence and enjoy that,” Turner said. “Every day before practice when we were together the last three years in Green Bay he would just come over and sit next to me. It was one of those opportunities we had daily to sit there, communicate, to learn about one another. He’s just one of those bright, positive souls that I fortunately had the great pleasure of meeting in this industry.”

Turner is also the favorite player of Hackett’s daughter, Everly. It’s quite the compliment for an offensive lineman — certainly not a player that’s constantly featured on television or posting monster fantasy stats.

“It’s dope, it’s very cool. Talking with Hackett and his family it’s cool. We talk about a bunch of different things, it’s not just football related. That’s why we’re tight. Everly doesn’t like me because I’m a football player. She likes me because of the other things I do outside of football. The clothing, the art and all these other things that she has interest in. It’s a full circle, 360 degree type of thing with the Hacketts. They’re great people.”

Turner went on to say part of his decision to join the Broncos was linked to trading for Russell Wilson. He said Wilson is a “Hall of Fame player” and said their styles will work will together. Turner said his athleticism on the offensive line will mesh nicely with Wilson’s ability to extend plays.

The Broncos signed Turner to almost assuredly play right tackle, but he has plenty of experience at guard as well. Turner said he’s comfortable at both positions and will play wherever the coaches need him.

He wrapped up his press conference by saying he likes the Denver area and liked living here, but went back to Hackett one more time.

“I would love to end my career here if that’s an option for me and I would love to end my career playing for coach Hackett. Having the opportunity to play for someone who I consider a great friend, it was a no-brainer to me,” Turner said.

Hackett is going to make the Broncos a lot better on the field, but it appears the relationships he cultivated off the field are already making a big impact as well. From Hackett, to Wilson, to guys like Turner, it’s an extremely exciting time in Broncos Country.

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