4 Packers who aren't safe with Jeff Hafley as defensive coordinator

Darnell Savage

Tackling will be a priority for Hafley. In 2019, The Athletic's Bruce Feldman wrote a great piece on how Hafley emphasized tackling during his time at Ohio State. It's especially important if the Packers are going to play a more aggressive style, often with a single-high safety.

"The Buckeyes do a four- or five-minute practice period to sharpen their tackling skills. For defensive backs, that means standing about 10 yards away from a ball carrier for a full-speed, live tackling rep," wrote Feldman.

Tackling matters, and Hafley needs his safeties to consistently make plays.

Tackling has been an issue for Darnell Savage throughout his career. According to Pro Football Reference, he had missed eight or more tackles in four of his five seasons in the NFL. His missed-tackle percentage hit double-digits four times, including 13.6 percent this year.

Addressing the safety position becomes a top priority for the Packers under Hafley. Green Bay likely won't spend big money in free agency, but general manager Brian Gutekunst could prioritize the position in the early rounds of the draft. The Packers need a safety who can play a key role in Hafley's scheme.

Savage is a free agent this offseason. His inconsistent play and issues with tackling could force the Packers to move on.