Packers were reportedly turned down by their top defensive coordinator choice (again)

The Green Bay Packers' decision to hire Jeff Hafley as defensive coordinator seemed to come out of nowhere. A number of coaches had reportedly interviewed for the job, but the Packers kept their interest in Hafley quiet.

Matt LaFleur interviewed several candidates, including Denver Broncos defensive backs coach Christian Parker, Dallas Cowboys defensive line coach Aden Durde, and new Buffalo Bills defensive coordinator Bobby Babich.

Another name the Packers interviewed? Baltimore Ravens inside linebackers coach Zach Orr. He has since earned a promotion as Baltimore's new defensive coordinator. Four years ago, LaFleur offered Jim Leonhard the defensive coordinator job but was declined. One report suggests something similar happened again.

Ravens coach Zach Orr reportedly turned down Packers defensive coordinator job

The Packers understandably had interest in Orr, who played an important role on Mike Macdonald's staff. Baltimore led the league in scoring defense this season. However, Orr reportedly turned down the Packers' defensive coordinator opening.

According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston, the Packers offered Orr the defensive coordinator job, but he declined to stay in Baltimore. The Ravens promoted Orr to replace defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald after he took a head coach job.

Orr's decision to stay in Baltimore makes sense. He has been part of the team's success and has already worked with the coaching staff.

But it's noteworthy for the Packers. It would suggest Hafley wasn't the first choice. What if Macdonald hadn't taken a head coach job? Would Orr have become Green Bay's defensive coordinator?

The Packers still made a good hire in Hafley. He helped improve the Ohio State and Boston College defenses in recent years and has NFL experience, having worked under Mike Pettine and Robert Saleh.

Green Bay had several excellent options, including Orr and Hafley. Hopefully, Hafley can help the Packers' defense make significant improvements in 2024.

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