7 defensive coordinators Packers must hire after firing Joe Barry

Jim Leonhard

One coach LaFleur has already had interest in is Jim Leonhard. He interviewed the then-Wisconsin Badgers defensive coordinator in 2021, but Leonhard declined the offer. Things have changed over the past few years. Leonhard is no longer in Wisconsin. He took a year away from coaching in 2023, working as a senior football analyst for Illinois.

Would LaFleur consider speaking to Leonhard again? It's unclear whether he would be more interested in moving to the NFL than three years ago, but LaFleur interviewed him in the past, so he may reach out again.

Under Leonhard, Wisconsin ranked No. 1 in defense twice.

Chris Harris

According to Albert Breer of The MMQB, Chris Harris was a "very close second" behind Joe Barry for the Packers' defensive coordinator job in 2021. At the time, Harris was the Washington Commanders' defensive backs coach. He spent 2023 as the defensive pass game coordinator and cornerbacks coach for the Tennessee Titans.

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported that Harris has interviewed for the Chicago Bears and Jacksonville Jaguars' defensive coordinator jobs this offseason. Harris could help Green Bay's secondary improve. He is another name to watch, having interviewed for the job three years ago.

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