7 Packers defensive coordinator candidates ranked from worst to best (Updated)
1. Ejiro Evero
Hiring Ejiro Evero is the least likely to happen, as he is currently the Carolina Panthers' defensive coordinator. The Panthers can block any interest from other teams. Green Bay's only hope is if Carolina decides to go in another direction at defensive coordinator, having already made a change at head coach. Evero has also interviewed for head coaching jobs.
However, if the Packers get an opportunity to hire Evero, they must make it happen. According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the Packers and Los Angeles Rams would have Evero "near or at the top of their lists" if he becomes available.
"He's done a hell of a job. You saw it a year ago in Denver, and you see the carryover this year with a whole new group. I've got a lot of respect for Ejiro," Packers coach Matt LaFleur said in December. "He's a great communicator, he's demanding, he holds guys accountable. I've just got a ton of respect for what he's been able to accomplish."
Evero runs a similar system to Vic Fangio's, and he's had tremendous success as a defensive coordinator. Despite the Panthers only winning two games this season, their defense, incredibly, ranked fourth in yards allowed. The Denver Broncos only won five games a year earlier, but Evero's defense finished eighth.
LaFleur has previously worked with Evero and interviewed him for the defensive coordinator opening in 2021 before hiring Joe Barry. Evero also spent time in Green Bay as a defensive quality control coach in 2016.
Evero would be a dream defensive coordinator hire for the Packers if he is available.