The Green Bay Packers spent years needing a change in defensive philosophy. Jeff Hafley provided that after replacing Joe Barry last offseason.
Unfortunately, the Hafley era could end before it even had a chance to properly get started. The New York Jets have reportedly shown an interest in interviewing the Packers' defensive coordinator for their vacant head coach job.
Hafley helped level up the Packers' defense this season, and his unit single-handedly gave the team hope in the NFC Wild Card loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. It's no surprise to see teams beginning to show interest in Hafley, who has college head coach experience and has proven himself as an excellent leader.
It would leave the Packers in need of a new defensive coordinator for the second straight year, but the perfect replacement could already be in the building.
Packers should hire Robert Saleh if defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley leaves
Robert Saleh didn't have to wait long to find work after getting fired by the New York Jets. Matt LaFleur brought him to Green Bay to help out as an offensive consultant. The two are close friends.
Saleh is also in the mix for head coach jobs during this hiring cycle, having interviewed for the Jacksonville Jaguars' vacancy. If he doesn't land a head coach gig this offseason, it won't take long to find work as a defensive coordinator — the San Francisco 49ers have an opening.
The Packers could, too.
If Hafley lands a head coach job but Saleh doesn't, LaFleur should do everything possible to ensure he remains in Green Bay, no longer as a consultant, but as the leader of the defense.
Saleh has an outstanding track record as a defensive coordinator. His Niners defenses ranked No. 2 and No. 5 in total yards allowed in 2019 and 2020, respectively. In 2019, San Francisco had the No. 1 passing defense. It landed him the Jets' head coach job.
His Jets unit struggled in his first year, but by 2022, they ranked No. 4 in the league. That season, they dominated the Packers at Lambeau Field, sacking Aaron Rodgers four times and limiting them to just 10 points.
Green Bay would be an excellent landing spot for Saleh, especially as he aims to earn his way back into a head coach job. Hafley's unit ranked No. 6 in the NFL this season. With some additional pass-rush help and reinforcements at cornerback, this group could become one of the league's best under Saleh's leadership.
He has also spent time in the Packers' locker room over the past few months and has familiarity with the team, players, and staff.
With LaFleur running the offense and Saleh the defense, this team could reach new heights in 2025. The Packers don't want to lose Hafley, but if he lands a head coach job, LaFleur should immediately call Saleh.