7 defensive coordinators Packers must hire after firing Joe Barry

Jesse Minter

Jesse Minter could soon return to the NFL. He spent time on the Baltimore Ravens' staff between 2017 and 2020 before replacing current Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald and Michigan's defensive coordinator in 2022. Under Minter, Michigan's defense has dominated, playing a vital role in the team's National Championship win this year.

The 40-year-old was also briefly named Michigan's interim head coach while Jim Harbaugh was suspended. He went 1-0. Minter could land a defensive coordinator job in the NFL this offseason, and the Packers would face competition. Minter has interviewed for the Eagles' DC job, and Harbaugh may want to hire him if he returns to the NFL.

Joe Whitt Jr.

It's no coincidence that the Dallas Cowboys' secondary has dominated in recent seasons. Joe Whitt Jr. has made an impact since becoming the Cowboys' secondary coach and pass game coordinator under Mike McCarthy. Trevon Diggs made an NFL-best 11 interceptions in 2021. This year, DaRon Bland led the league with nine.

Whitt spent a decade in Green Bay. He was McCarthy's cornerbacks coach for nine years before being promoted to defensive passing game coordinator.

It could be time for Whitt to finally land a defensive coordinator job, and the Packers should be interested.