Dream defensive coordinator target is now off the table for Packers

Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur is taking his time to find the right choice at defensive coordinator.

LaFleur has interviewed several candidates from various defensive backgrounds. Almost all of the confirmed interviews have been with coaches without play-calling experience in the NFL. Even Brandon Staley, a former defensive coordinator and head coach, is 41 years old and only made the jump from position coach four years ago.

Green Bay could go with an exciting young coach like Christian Parker, Zach Orr, or Dennard Wilson. However, one potential top target is now off the table.

Packers miss out on dream defensive coordinator target Bobby Babich

Bobby Babich could've been a home-run hire by Matt LaFleur. Unfortunately, he won't get the opportunity to bring him to Green Bay. The Buffalo Bills announced they have promoted Babich to defensive coordinator.

It's an unsurprising move by the Bills. Babich is an ascending coach and has received interest from around the league. Buffalo couldn't afford to lose him.

"Bobby is one of the smartest coaches I've been around. Incredible energy and one of the best developers of talent I've witnessed," said former Bills Pro Bowl center Eric Wood.

It's disappointing for the Packers, as Babich could've been a great choice. Since becoming an assistant coach with the Bills in 2017, everything Babich touched turned to gold.

Babich coached the Bills' safeties from 2018 to 2021. In that time, former Packer Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer enjoyed All-Pro seasons. They dominated during Babich's run as the safeties coach. In 2022, he switched to coach the linebackers and helped former fifth-round pick Matt Milano become a first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowler.

The Bills understandably didn't want to lose Babich and acted quickly. Buffalo has had a top-10 defense three years in a row, ranking first in total yards in 2021 and 2022. Babich played an important role.

Green Bay still has plenty of options to replace Joe Barry, but Babich's promotion in Buffalo eliminates one of the top candidates.

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