Packers to hire Mike Pettine as defensive coordinator, per report

The Green Bay Packers are set to hire Mike Pettine as defensive coordinator, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

The Vic Fangio update many have been hoping for won’t be coming any time soon, but the Green Bay Packers have found themselves an experienced defensive coordinator to replace Dom Capers.

Pettine interviewed with the team on Tuesday, and head coach Mike McCarthy was clearly impressed.

Pettine is now in line to become the defensive coordiantor.

Many will point to Pettine’s failed tenure in Cleveland as head coach. The 51-year-old lasted just two seasons, finishing with a 10-22 record.

And while it didn’t work out for him as a head coach, there’s a reason he was given the Browns’ job in the first place. Pettine’s best work has come as a defensive coordinator.

Just how good? Allow this tweet by The Power Sweep to explain.

Zachary Jacobson of Cheesehead TV also praised Pettine.

The Packers could see a number of schematic changes under Pettine. He’ll have talent to work with in Green Bay too.

Mike Daniels and Kenny Clark could form an excellent duo up front. Blake Martinez took a huge jump in his second year. Nick Perry and Clay Matthews provide solid pass-rushing options, although this is an area new general manager Brian Gutekunst will need to strengthen.

In the defensive backfield, cornerback remains a need but Kevin King flashed potential in his rookie year and Damarious Randall made significant improvements.

Ha Ha Clinton-Dix had a down year at safety, but he’s been reliable enough throughout his career that we can expect him to bounce back under Pettine. Morgan Burnett‘s status will be interesting to watch. He’s set to hit free agency this spring.

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Pettine’s hire is another key piece to a huge offseason shakeup in Green Bay. McCarthy had options when searching for his new defensive coordinator, and he’s made a smart hire in Pettine.